TWO generations are getting creative together with a range of exciting and educational projects.
Key Stage 1 pupils from Royton Hall Primary School are working with Orchard House Day Hospital patients on everything from reading and art activities to baking.
The most recent visit in January saw the children and patients create a fantastic board for the school’s Great Fire of London display.
Dan Charnock, Key Stage 1 Unit Leader at Royton Hall Primary School, said: “Everybody enjoys these sessions.
“The clients enjoy working with the young children and helping them to create something. Our children love working with the clients as they often remind them of grandparents.
“For the children, they improve their social skills by working with somebody they don’t know. They gain confidence and are able to learn in a setting other than school.”
The activities take place once or twice a month, when a group of six to eight children visits Orchard House or the patients come into the school.
And sessions are also held weekly when patients come to the school on High Barn Street to read with the children.
Orchard House has long-term links with the school since it was on Milton Street opposite the Day Hospital and is delighted to continue their links.
Liz Lawton, manager at Orchard House Day Hospital, said: “We have been so pleased to continue with this relationship as the school has moved to High Barn Street.
“Our patients look forward to the children visiting and in turn visiting the school to take part in activities.
“The two generations work well together in all sorts of activities including crafts and cooking and there is always a great atmosphere in the building when the children visit us.”
• Find out more about Royton Hall Primary School on their website: www.roytonhall-pri.oldham.sch.uk
Orchard House Day Hospital is a service for people over 65 who have been referred into mental health services. Patients are offered support and also given opportunities to explore activities and techniques in the community.
• Find out more online: www.penninecare.nhs.uk