Sunrise of Bagshot has been introducing residents to a new generation; as part of an intergenerational project, students from Wellington College have been invited to visit the home.
Six students from the college spend Wednesday afternoons with the residents in the autumn and spring terms from 2.30-3.30pm. The group chat and play board games and often sing around the piano while their tutor plays songs from the good old days.
Recently, the students invited the residents from Sunrise of Bagshot to Wellington College for a tour of the beautiful grounds and homemade cakes and afternoon tea. Residents from the community had a lovely time and enjoyed socialising with staff and students from the college.
On the tour the residents were informed about the history of the chapel and the organ, while marvelling at the stain glass windows. Residents reminisced about their school days and one commented on the smart uniforms the students wore, which reminded her of her own from years ago. It has now become a tradition that on their last day of term the students play the piano and give the residents a sing-a-long, which is a highlight for many.
One resident became very emotional when taking the tour of the grounds and chapel of Wellington and said to the students “You don’t know how lucky you are! What a fantastic experience!”
Jane Harris, activities co-ordinator at Sunrise of Bagshot, says: “The trip to Wellington College was greatly enjoyed by both residents and students. They just loved chatting about their times spent at school and sharing stories of fond memories and funny experiences. Residents really look forward to seeing the students each week and it has been a wonderful project to be involved with.”
