Intergenerational program benefits young and old

GRADE 5/6 student leaders from Heathcote Primary School were invited to attend Heathcote Health’s Aged Care Easter celebrations in the last week of Term One.

Principal Carolyn Crowther said the opportunity to connect was enjoyed by everyone, with residents and teachers already talking about plans for the next get-together.

“It is the first of many planned partnerships between Heathcote Primary School and Heathcote Health Aged Care,” said Crowther.

“Intergenerational programs benefit everyone involved and we are looking forward to seeing the partnership go from strength to strength.

“Students and residents spent time chatting, getting to know each other and playing games before enjoying a barbeque lunch together.”

Residents had made Easter bonnets, and the students judged a special Easter Bonnet Parade.

A small group of residents participated in a scavenger hunt with the students.

Crowther said there was wonderful feedback about the visit from the students.

“I enjoyed meeting Jack,” said grade 6 house captain Freddie.

“He is really good at I Spy… He was a fun guy to meet and I liked how he was always smiling.”

Grade 6 school captain Hailee taught Helen how to play Rock, Paper, Scissors.

“We chatted about how school was going,” said grade 5 junior school council representative Liam.

“I really enjoyed chatting to Joan and how kind she was.”

Grade 6 house captain Ben said he enjoyed meeting the residents and having conversations.