Books united the generations, when students from St Clement’s High School shared stories with residents at Terrington Lodge.

The four Year 8 and 9 students visited the care home as part of our school’s ongoing connection with the care home.

“The students read books of uplifting stories and picture books focusing on different decades from the 1960s to 1990s,” explained our Librarian, Jenny Ford, who accompanied the group.

“The books they shared were old books from the 1950s to current day, and were designed to trigger memories and help the residents recall memories. The books were on pastimes, old television and musical stars, travel, and short stories.”

“The residents talked to the students about their school experiences, where they worked, and how they played outside all the time as children,” she continued. “Some residents have lived locally all their lives, and talked about the local area.

“The students enjoyed hearing the residents reminisce about their lives, and it started conversations about sport, hobbies, books, and travel. It was a great opportunity to discuss historical events, and revisit memories that the residents shared with the students.

“Some of the residents took a turn to read to the students, and they clearly enjoyed the experience.”

Our school, which is part of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, has close ties with Terrington Lodge, with visits taking place several times a year.

“The events are very important for students to develop confidence with reading aloud to a different audience with possible communication barriers like memory loss and hearing impairments,” added Mrs Ford. “It helps forge strong links across generations and creates relationships in the community.

“The school visits at Christmas time, and the music students also visit and have small performances at the Lodge.

“This visit helped strengthen the connections between the school and Terrington Lodge, and we look forward to going back later in the year.”