New Library and Sensory Room at Marden Lodge Primary School

Marden Lodge Primary School has officially opened a brand-new library and sensory room — thanks to the incredible support of volunteers and generous donations.

The new library, stocked with over 1000 books chosen by the pupils themselves, aims to foster a lifelong love of reading. Alongside it, the new sensory room — named The Cosy Cave by the children — offers a calm, nurturing space where pupils can regulate their emotions with the support of trusted adults.

Both projects were part of a wider programme of school improvements completed over the spring term and the Easter break.

To mark the occasion, pupils enjoyed a virtual tour of Moon Lane Books in Whitstable, led by author and bookshop owner Tamara Macfarlane. Thanks to a generous £650 donation from The Siobhan Dowd Trust, the children were able to select and purchase a wide range of new books for the library from Moon Lane Books.

The space also features a hand-painted Alice in Wonderland-themed mural, to inspire young readers and celebrate the joy of reading for pleasure.

The official opening was attended by Councillor Jeffrey Grey, the President and a Trustee of the Caterham, Oxted and Godstone Lions, along with representatives from the GLF Schools Foundation, Jak Martin and Nicola Brotherton and local MP Claire Coutinho's representatives, Richard and Harrison. They were joined by members of school staff, the Marden Lodge School Pupil Parliament and the school's Year 6 Ambassadors, who proudly helped welcome guests and showcase the new spaces.

Sarah Rumbol, Head of School at Marden Lodge, said: “We’re so proud of our new library and sensory room, and I know how much they will mean to our pupils. There is no greater gift we can give children than a love of reading, and this library will be an inspiring, welcoming space to nurture that love. On behalf of everyone at Marden Lodge, I want to sincerely thank all the people who helped make these improvements possible — whether through donating their time, funds, or both. Your support means the world to us.”

For more information about Marden Lodge Primary School, or to arrange a visit, please contact - info@marden-lodge.surrey.sch.uk