DEAR & The Library

Drop Everything and Read

Drop Everything and Read (DEAR) at Patcham High School 

At Patcham High School, reading is the cornerstone of our curriculum. We believe that every member of staff is a teacher of reading, and that all students should develop the confidence, fluency, and enjoyment needed to become lifelong readers.

Our Drop Everything and Read (DEAR) programme ensures that every student reads every day. Through this dedicated time, students encounter a wide range of texts and vocabulary, broadening their understanding of the world and building strong comprehension skills.  Through DEAR, students not only become stronger readers, but also discover the joy of reading widely and for pleasure.

The Library

Our library is a calm, welcoming space at the heart of school life. It offers a rich and diverse collection—ranging from textbooks and reference materials to fiction, poetry, and beyond—designed to inspire readers of all interests and ages. Organised and peaceful, it’s the perfect environment for quiet reading, focused revision, or simply discovering new ideas.

Many students choose to spend their breaks or after-school time here, whether to study, play board games with friends, or relax with a good book.

Our friendly librarians are always available to provide guidance and personalised recommendations, helping students uncover new authors and develop lasting reading habits. More than just a room full of books, our library is a place that nurtures curiosity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.