An intergenerational project involving youngsters at St Luke’s High School and a Barrhead nursing home has concluded with a showcase celebrating residents’ lives.
Norwood Nursing Home, in Victoria Road, has been receiving regular visits from a group of fifth and sixth year pupils who have been interviewing and recording the life stories of those living there.
The teens took part in the project as part of their volunteering class, run by teachers Brendan Toal and Gail Patterson.
At its conclusion, the pupils presented a ‘This is Your Life’ show to residents and their families during an afternoon tea at the care home, with help from Denise Smith and Anna Kerr, of Voluntary Action East Renfrewshire (VAER).
Gail told the Barrhead News: “Our young people showed such compassion and care for the residents and the room radiated with warmth and kindness.
“I could not be prouder of our young people for their creativity and how much they have embraced the project.
“St Luke’s High would like to thank Voluntary Action East Renfrewshire and Norwood Care Home for welcoming us and we look forward to working with them both in the future.”
Denise added: “When different generations come together, something magical happens.
“It was a great finale to a wonderful intergenerational project between Norwood Nursing Home, Advinia Healthcare and St Luke’s High School.
“We have been so lucky to work with such a remarkable group of young people.”
East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure (ERCL) also worked with VAER to support the project.
Amanda Robb, local studies librarian, delivered a workshop on oral history and supplied the pupils with recording equipment.
Gail said: “The project has been so good for the young people and I think the residents have really enjoyed having them in and being able to chat to them.
“The pupils also did first aid training, which is another string to their bow.
“They have only been back at school a short time but have already done so much and it’s really benefitted them.”
Annemarie McNaught, care home manager, added: “The finale was fabulous. The pupils presented the residents with information they had gathered, resulting in laughter and a few happy tears.”
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