Intergenerational Project: Margaret House and the Beech Class Buddies (Year 3)

While the benefits of children visiting care homes are well documented by researchers, we are especially proud of the project between Margaret House and Barley & Barkway Federation School. We are committed to this intergenerational programme, which has been developing for the last six years. The relationships between the generations flourish year on year. 

Margaret House staff often comment on the cheeky grins and bursts of laughter as the children make themselves at home. They steal the hearts of the residents week after week, and their visits have become one of the most anticipated highlights of life at the care home. During the summer holidays, the children even write letters and send photos to ensure that their special connections remain in place.

Wellbeing Manager, Lea-Ann Smith, explains:
“Our programme runs on a rolling two-year basis. Year 3 children join us first when they come to read to their resident ‘reading buddy’ and receive their coveted Buddy Badge. As their relationships develop, they return in Year 4 to take part in a range of weekly activities including art, music, charity events, and the ever-popular monthly lunch together.”

Mrs Porter adds:
“It is fantastic seeing how the children’s confidence grows over the two-year period. In the first year, when the children are in Year 3, they attend weekly reading sessions. When they move into Year 4, they are selected for projects that enhance our curriculum, continue their relationship with Margaret House, and include enjoying meals at the care home.

The reading sessions initially support their reading development, with children performing to their buddies as they read. While they are always developing their reading and oracy skills, they also gain a deeper understanding of ageing and a genuine respect for older generations. We are bridging the gap between generations, and the children quickly learn how many wonderful stories the residents have to share with them.  Often our buddies can bring learning to life when they share information with the children from the past. The children have loved learning about what school was like in the past and the jobs their buddies had when they were working.

The children absolutely love coming to Margaret House, and the project is now firmly embedded in our curriculum."

November 2025 - BBC Look East Film Pupils and Residents: