The real estate agent donates books to the school library

St. Mary’s Preparatory School is celebrating a new partnership with local firm Philip Booth Esq Estate Agents and enjoying a new investment in their school library.

Together with Rosie Wilkinson, Head of School English and The Bell Bookshop, they have purchased a wide range of more diverse and inclusive books with titles that include My name is not a refugee, i am not a label and An ABC of equality.

Rosie said, “I am delighted to be working with Phil and Emma to expand our library offerings. We love giving our kids the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of books, from classics like Roald Dahl or Michael Morpurgo to newer favorites like Abi Elphinstone and Malala Yousafzai. We are truly delighted to have been able to diversify our book offering, to ensure that our children see all types of families, cultures and beliefs represented.

Director Rob Harmer said: “We are very grateful to Phil Booth and Emma Vanstone-Booth for their generous donation to our school library. It’s fantastic to partner with a local business and former St. Mary’s parents! At St. Mary’s, our children are supported to become independent readers from an early age. It’s wonderful to watch them develop a passion for reading, spark their imaginations, and support their own creative writing.

The school has an extensive library, with a wide range of books for children of all ages, from the youngest learners at Reception to the oldest children in Year 6. Pupils are encouraged to use the library regularly and younger children enjoy reading. with their 6th grade friends.

Phil Booth commented: “I know that nothing beats the simple pleasure of curling up with a good book and getting lost in history, and it’s so important to start that at an early age. We are strong supporters of our local schools and Emma and I have very fond memories of St. Mary’s – our daughter Isabella attended the school from kindergarten to grade 6 and we just can’t say enough good things about school. We were pleased to be asked to help the school inspire another generation of readers and to support The Bell Bookshop in the process. Caring for local businesses and local schools has never been more important.

Student, Amaya said, “I can’t wait to read The Last Bear and The Girl Who Drank the Moon. They both look interesting from the blurb I read on the back and once I’ve read The Last Bear I’ll make a poster for the library wall.