Tea cheers for Nene Park students

Several schools in Peterborough are leading the way by increasing student awareness of dementia. In some instances young people are meeting those living with dementia and their carers. Rotary, together with the Peterborough Dementia Action Alliance (PDAA) and Alzheimer UK, is working with these schools to develop a greater level of understanding.

For the third year in succession students at Nene Park Academy invited members of Crocus Cafe (Peterborough’s Rotary Memory Cafe) to an afternoon tea at their school. Once safely parked, guided by youngsters in high-vis jackets, everyone was warmly greeted at the door by a cheerful student who introduced himself and made them feel welcome. Once visitors were seated 2-tiered plates of delicious sandwiches, tarts, cakes and scones with jam and cream were ser- ved. The hospitality students had baked and prepared all these delights during the morning. As they served the cuppas the young people chatted to their guests. This year there was an extra surprise when students from the performing arts department arrived to entertain. Crocus Cafe members were treated to music played by the school ensemble, a keyboard solo, songs performed by the choir and a number of vocal solos. The standard was amazing and certainly added to the occasion. There was a further treat in store for members when a couple of girls from the hair and beauty salon arrived to give hand massages. Cups were filled and plates replenished throughout this wonderful afternoon.

A choir from Fulbridge Primary School came to entertain the same lucky people at the Salvation Army during our December Crocus Cafe meeting. A polished perfor- mance of traditional carols and Christmas songs was delivered with lively actions accompanying pieces such as “When Santa came down the Chimney”. Smart school uniforms were brightened by colourful Christmas headgear. It was a word perfect repertoire, a real credit in view of the number of songs they delivered. There were sweetly sung solos and harmonies, even a song partly sung in Polish to the delight of our Polish members. The children tucked into cakes, sausage rolls and squash then treated us to an equally professional encore performance. Watch out X Factor – these children are really good!

Nene Valley Primary has already signed up with the PDAA. Teachers have a solid action plan in place to raise awareness. Nene Park Academy and Fulbridge are also considering joining. Together we will make sure the next generation has a better understanding of dementia and learn how we can help those affected to live well in Peterborough. Rotary thanks these very special students and staff. We wish them all the best for Christmas and the New Year. Your school could join us. Contact me for details.