Gibraltar Cultural Services (GCS), on behalf of the Ministry for Culture, has established its firstever schools shadowing group for the prestigious Carnegie Awards.
This marks an exciting milestone for reading engagement and literary enrichment among young people on the Rock. It forms part of a wider vision to support the Gibunco Gibraltar Literary Festival and its ancillary events.
The initiative was made through strong links and networking with Carnegie representatives and GCS’s attendance at the London Book Fair. The initiative brings together students from both Westside and Bayside Schools, with the group supported by Melissa Bosano, teacher, coach and representative of the Gibraltar National Book Council, whose backing has been instrumental in launching the programme.
The shadowing scheme allows students to read and evaluate books shortlisted for the Carnegie Awards, one of the UK’s most respected literary prizes for children’s and young adult literature. By participating, students gain the opportunity to critically engage with contemporary writing, develop their analytical skills and share their perspectives alongside thousands of young readers internationally.
This year’s shortlist showcases a diverse and high-quality selection of titles, offering students exposure to powerful storytelling and important themes. The value of the scheme lies in promoting a love of reading and also in giving young people a voice in literary discussion and recognition.
Adding to the excitement, this year’s Carnegie Award-winning authors are expected to attend the Gibraltar Literary Festival this November, providing a unique opportunity for students to meet and engage with celebrated writers whose work they have studied.
This shadowing group represents an important step in strengthening Gibraltar’s literary culture and inspiring the next generation of readers, writers, and thinkers.
For more information, please contact GCS’s Development team on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by calling 200 41839
