Cockwood welcomed some very special guests this week! The village hosted the Lord Lieutenant of Devon, Mr David Fursdon, alongside Dawlish Mayor, Councillor Anthony James and Deputy Mayor, Councillor Lynda Littlewood for the grand opening of the new community library. Cockwood School has sponsored this wonderful new facility specifically to benefit the adults within the community. The school recognises the vital importance of reading with their pupils and were genuinely astonished by the findings of a recent survey called ‘Reading State of the Nation’, carried out in July 2024. The results revealed a significant decline in reading for pleasure among UK adults, with nearly one in four young people aged 16 to 24 saying they have never been readers. This really struck a chord with teachers at the school. They felt if we want our pupils to be avid readers, it is vital that our community models this behaviour. After all, more than 27 million UK adults are currently missing out on the many advanatges that regaulr reading can bring.
Working hand in hand with the local Village Green Committee, they have been absolutely committed to providing a community library for the residents, parents and holidaymakers alike. The library has found its perfect home by the entrance to the Village Green, creating an ideal spot for anyone to browse and discover their next great read.
As a school, we will be maintaining the library and ensuring it remains well-stocked, but the hope is that this wonderful resource will truly thrive on that powerful principle: ‘bring a book, take a book’. There’s something quite magical about the idea of books finding new homes and new readers through this simple exchange.
Beyond promoting literacy, we believe this library will serve as a vital hub for social connection within the community. Picture families stopping by after a walk on the green, holidaymakers discovering a perfect beach read, or neighbours bumping into each other while browsing the shelves. These are the moments that strengthen the fabric of the village.
Through this library, the village hopes to nurture a love of reading that will enrich the community for generations to come. It represents everything Cockwood School and the Ivy Education Trust value – collaboration, community spirit, and a shared commitment to learning and growth.
Here’s to many happy hours of reading ahead!
