Thriving through intergenerational connections and community
Residents at Tenterfield Care’s Haddington and Millrace communities are benefitting from a treasured relationship with Tenterfield High School that has grown over the years and is having a long-term positive impact.
Each week, around 15 students participate in activities, share stories and form genuine friendships that bridge generations.
Lifestyle lead, Kasey, says the impact has been profound. “It’s been wonderful to watch the relationships develop. Residents look forward to their visits and often ask when the students will be returning. I’ve also observed the students build their leadership and organisational skills and grow in confidence,” she says.
Supervised by a staff member and teacher, the students run the activities. They recently arrived armed with board and card games, some they invented themselves, to teach to the residents. There was plenty of fun and laughter as the group learned new skills. Resident, Doug, enjoyed one game so much that the students left it behind for him to continue to challenge himself. In return, the residents have also taught the younger generation some of their favourite games, like checkers and scrabble.
A different group of students who participate in a lunchtime knitting group recently brought a colourful collection of knitted goodies to donate to Millrace. The residents were delighted with the cosy beanies, blankets and scarves and have invited them back for some knitting time next term.
Kasey says the benefits of the special bonds that have formed are far reaching. “Residents are delighted when students recognise them out in the community and come up to say hello, and we love being invited to watch them perform in school plays and assemblies. We’re also so excited to be joining them for morning tea at the agricultural plot later this month where they’ll parade the steers they’ve prepared for this year’s Ekka,” she says.
The relationship has kickstarted some careers too. Over the years, some students who participated in the school visits have gone on to do work experience or school-based traineeships at Tenterfield Care, with some even returning as full-time employees.
To find out more about our welcoming communities, call our friendly admissions team on (02) 6736 0300 or email info@tenterfieldcare.org.au.
