An innovative intergenerational pilot project between Norman House and Cheam Fields Primary Academy has successfully completed its first term, bringing together older and younger neighbours for shared activities and joyful moments.

The project, facilitated by InCommon, kicked off in October with a workshop that set the stage for connection and friendship. The groundwork for this heartwarming initiative was laid in September, with an InCommon Facilitator hosting a coffee morning at Norman House to gather ideas from residents about activities they would enjoy with the children. A welcome pack, including magazines and handwritten postcards from the Norman House residents, added a personal touch to the budding relationships. Workshops held at Norman House have been a resounding success, with participation from 10 older people and 12 children, along with support from InCommon facilitators and teachers from Cheam Fields Primary Academy.

Delightful Moments of Connection

The first workshop in October saw children arriving by minibus and introducing themselves with their handwritten postcards, leading to smiles and lively conversations by the end of the session. A "show and tell" session further deepened the connection, with one child discovering their grandparent had served in the same land army as one of the residents! The children's enthusiasm was evident, with the school teacher sharing that they had been asking every week, "When are we going to Norman House?" since their first visit.

Engagement and Activities

The programme has seen significant engagement, with 5 positive engagement activities, 10 unique residents participating, 77 volunteering hours by residents over 55, and 10 residents participating in more than one activity.

Memorable moments include a garden tour at Norman House led by resident Christiane, where children explored the plants and flowers. In November, an activity idea from older neighbour Chrissy was a hit: a "Guess Who?" game using pictures of the older neighbours as children. The festive workshop in December brought extra cheer, with children wearing Christmas jumpers and gifting personalised cards to their older neighbours.

What Participants Are Saying

The program has been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback. A teacher from Cheam Fields Primary Academy noted the excitement of the Norman House residents when the children arrive and how much the children enjoyed guessing the baby photos. A Norman House resident expressed their joy in the children's visits, and the Scheme Manager at Norman House was touched by the children sharing what was important to them.

The intergenerational project between Norman House and Cheam Fields Primary Academy is proving to be a valuable experience for all involved, fostering connections, creating joyful moments, and building a stronger community.

As well as this, LEO Academy Trust has also been hosting heartwarming visits for residents and staff from Age UK to both Brookfield Primary Academy and Cheam Common Junior Academy, fostering connections and creating cherished memories.

On both occasions, the Age UK visitors were warmly welcomed by staff from LEO. The highlight of each visit was the opportunity to share a delicious lunch together. This provided a wonderful setting for intergenerational conversations, with stories and laughter being exchanged freely across the tables.

Following the enjoyable meal, the visitors were treated to a special performance by the school choirs. The children's voices filled the air with delightful melodies, bringing smiles to everyone's faces. The residents and staff from Age UK were visibly moved by the talent and enthusiasm of the young singers, creating a truly uplifting experience for all involved.

These visits serve as a fantastic example of community spirit and the positive impact of bringing different generations together. They provided a valuable opportunity for the children to interact with older members of the community, while the Age UK attendees thoroughly enjoyed the energy and joy of the school environment and the beautiful music.

Age UK and LEO Academy Trust look forward to continuing to explore opportunities for intergenerational engagement in the future, building on the success of these heartwarming events.