Young Library Champions Crowned UK Pupil Library Assistants of the Year

Two outstanding pupils have been named winners of the UK Pupil Library Assistant of the Year Award, celebrating the vital role young people play in supporting and promoting school libraries.

Olipher Grey of Ullswater Community College in Penrith has been named the Secondary School Winner, while Beatrice McMillan of Ravenscourt Park Prep School in London has been named the Primary School Winner.

The winners were selected from an impressive group of finalists representing a diverse range of schools across the UK, including independent, co-educational and girls’ schools. Each finalist demonstrated exceptional dedication to their school library, helping to create welcoming reading environments and encouraging fellow pupils to discover the joy of books.

The winners were announced by award-winning poet and author Matt Goodfellow at a special ceremony celebrating the achievements of pupil library assistants from across the country.

The UK Pupil Library Assistant of the Year Award is organised annually by the School Libraries Group of the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP SLG) and the School Library Association (SLA). The award recognises the enthusiasm, commitment and leadership shown by young people who volunteer their time to support their school libraries and inspire a love of reading among their peers.

The awards ceremony was generously supported by sponsors Pearson, who hosted the event, and Authors Aloud UK, whose support helped make the celebration possible.

Barbara Band, Chair of the Judging Panel, said:

“Pupil library assistants make a tremendous contribution to school libraries across the UK. Their enthusiasm, creativity and commitment help create vibrant reading communities in their schools. Olipher and Beatrice are wonderful ambassadors for the many young people who support school libraries every day.”

Claire Riddle, Vice President, Marketing and Customer Engagement, Pearson, said:

“The UK Pupil Library Assistant of the Year Award continues to highlight the importance of school libraries and the positive impact young volunteers can have in fostering reading, literacy and community within their schools.”