Alsop High School students proudly represented their school when they performed an original poetry reading as part of the reopening of Spellow Community Hub and Library in Walton.
The event on 12th December, brought together Civic leaders, community members, faith representatives, and pupils from Arnot St Mary CE School to celebrate the return of the library, which had been forced to close earlier this year due to unrest.
In preparation for the event, Alsop’s Year 9 students worked with writers PJ Smith, Claire BeerjerInaz, and Writing on the Wall to explore themes of community, identity, and the power of words. With support from Head of English, Nisha Morley, and Reading Coordinator, Noreen Aspinall, the students discovered how writing can empower individuals to take charge of their own narratives.
This culminated in a moving poetry performance on the day that not only showcased their creativity but celebrated the significance of libraries as spaces for everyone.
The reopening event also featured contributions from Poet Levi Tafari, Children’s Laureate Frank Cottrell Boyce, and the Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotheram. Their speeches emphasised the library’s role in bringing the Walton community together and supporting its recovery.
Alsop’s Head of English, Mrs Morley, reflected on the occasion and said: “From interrogating the power of the word and what community means in our weekly workshops, to performing their work in in front of the nation, our pupils did us proud today.
“Today marked the important beginning of what Spellow Community Hub and Library has always meant and will mean to the community that helped rebuild this facility. Our students gathered here to deliver their memorable poetry performance that celebrated the power and importance of libraries in our lives. Each brimming with energy and passion, taking the stage to share their original work, each weaving a unique perspective on the vital role this place has played in their lives. Indeed, it was a celebration of creativity, learning, and community connection.
“It was empowering to hear our pupils stand on the grounds that were burnt just less than four months before, and show their solidarity. The performance was a testament to the boundless creativity and thoughtful insight of these young people. Through their words, they illuminated Spellow, a building filled with more than just books.”
Spellow Library had been closed after being set alight in August. Fundraising efforts and book donations from the Queen and numerous celebrities, has now meant the library has been restored as a vital community resource.
We are so proud of our Alsop students, who demonstrated the very best of their school, their community and themselves. Through their words, they truly illuminated a space that is so much more than just books!
