Last Thursday, Mr Herron's pupils took part in a heartwarming and inspiring intergenerational workshop held at St. Columb's Park House. The class were prepared for the days activities with the team from the Western Trust beforehand.
The event brought together children and older adults from the neighbourhood for a day of storytelling, creativity, and mutual learning.
From the moment the children arrived, the room buzzed with curiosity and excitement. Tables were set with craft materials, board games and puzzles inviting participants to dive into shared activities.
It was a beautiful exchange of knowledge, with both generations learning and laughing together.
This intergenerational workshop not only enriched our pupils’ understanding of history and community but also fostered empathy, respect, and joy across generations. It was a powerful reminder that learning is a lifelong journey—and sometimes, the best lessons come from those who’ve walked a little further down the path.
Thank you to Mrs Tiffany for nominating our school to take part.
'Statement from the Western Health & Social Care team:
During this month’s dementia information session we were joined by school children from Good Shepard Primary School who engaged in group activities and games with persons with a dementia diagnosis. This intergenerational session was facilitated by the Primary Care MDT social work assistants to enhance emotional and social wellbeing. The feedback received was fantastic with both groups reporting that they enjoyed the interaction and games.
There was also an opportunity for carers to engage in group discussions in a separate room for education, support and signposting facilitated by Stephanie Coyle (Dementia Navigator). Again feedback from the session was positive with carers reporting that the joint session allowed them to get vital carers information and education whilst knowing their loved ones were being cared for and interacting in an activity just in the next room.'
