Students invite older people to school for a memorable afternoon tea
DERBY pupils have popped the kettle on and thrown open the doors to welcome members of the community for an afternoon of tea, cake and entertainment.
Sixth form students at Allestree Woodlands School, in Blenheim Drive, held a spring community tea party for older people living in the area.
The guests were family members of the staff and from different churches in the area who were treated to an afternoon of musical entertainment from the students and a unique version of game show Family Fortunes, as well as cakes and tea.
One student also went round with a white board asking the guests for advice for the younger generation.
Will Hulse, 18, who provided some musical entertainment, said: “It’s a really nice group to perform to. A lot of them don’t get out a lot so it’s nice to be able to do something for them.
“I know from my grandparents that it can be quite hard to socialise and get out. This is a chance to get out and talk to people that they don’t see so much.
“I’ve enjoyed it. I was involved in it last year as well and it’s sad that this will be my last time.”
Freya Kelsall, 17, said: “I’ve helped set it up and organise the decorations. I’ve found it a really nice break from all of my lessons and I’ve enjoyed being able to take part and help the community.
“I think this helps to bring the community together as there are not many opportunities that bring the older generation and the younger generation together. “It’s been really inspiring.” Cerys Hills, 18, said: “It was fun. I think its lovely to get them together as I’m sure it can be quite isolating when you get older and this gives them the space and the opportunity to converse with us. They can have some fun, music and cakes.
“It’s really uplifting. It’s really cool to be involved and I feel part it.”
Guests also said they enjoyed meeting the young people and sharing their experience, as well as having the opportunity to catch up with old friends.
Barbara Flounders, who attended with husband John, said: “I’ve told the pupils that what’s most important is they believe in themselves and they can achieve what they want.”
Brian Foster, who attended with wife Pearl, said: “It’s been excellent. I’ve met a lady who I knew years ago and she told me about another group that I think we’re going to attend.”
Catherine Mills, Allestree Woodlands assistant head and head of sixth form, said: “We did the same thing for the Coronation and it was such a lovely occasion we decided to make it an annual thing.
“This helps the sixth formers to make links and communicate with the wider community.
“It’s amazing how they’ve been sitting at the tables with our guests and made them feel welcome.
“For some students it’s a big deal to sit and talk to strangers but it builds their confidence doing things outside of their usual experiences.”