New-bridge College Students Take Intergenerational Action!

New-bridge College Students Take Intergenerational Action!

Vicki from LGNI starting working with New-bridge Integrated College Banbridge at the beginning of term to explore the possibility of school led intergenerational initiatives.  Following a presentation to the whole Sixth form about LGNI, intergenerational work and the potential outcomes for all involved a group of students put their names forward!  The group led by a school prefect and supported by their School Principal then embarked on LGNI training.

Vicki delivered 2 training sessions focusing on Age Awareness, What is intergenerational Practice, Best Practice in Bringing Generations Together and Making Community Links.  The students were then tasked with pitching their ideas for intergenerational activities.  The dragons den style session saw three groups of students present their inspiring and very well thought out ideas followed by a discussion on the next steps to putting the ideas into practice!

The Christmas period and a Get Together Small Grant from LGNI provided the perfect opportunity for the students to reach out to older people.  A fantastic Christmas event took place at the school attended by approx. 4o older people including residents from a local care home, grandparents and the from the community.  Everyone enjoyed a festive dinner, music and arts activity and you can see some of the fantastic photos below!

Robbie Meredith BBC Newsline covered the event which appeared on the TV!  You can see the fantastic video of this on the BBC facebook page by clicking HERE.

The students are currently working on developing their ideas further which include links with a local care home and a knitting and nattering project!

This approach is a very different one for LGNI by putting pupils in the lead, but so valuable for their own development and the sustainability of intergenerational school activities.  They plan to reach out to other year groups and involve them as participants meaning that they get the experience of community development and leadership.

Well done to all involved and watch this space for more news on their progress!