LEIGHTON Park School was transformed into a festive hub as Year 8 students welcomed senior guests for a heart warming Christmas Extravaganza this month.
Visitors to the school, clients from Age UK Reading, were treated to a variety show featuring music, dance, and comedy, and a lively game of bingo.
The students chatted with their guests, and served them food provided by the school’s caterers Thomas Franks.
The day ended with gifts for their visitors, donated by the students’ families.
The event was the first in-person intergenerational gathering since the pandemic.
It was designed and hosted by the students, with support from Becky Edwards, director of Years 7 and 8, and Tash Coccia, senior assistant head: Partnerships and Co-Curricular.
Tash Coccia said: “We’ve been thinking of an opportunity to get Age UK Reading clients in for some time.
“Many live on their own and don’t have family nearby, so we felt Christmas was a really good time to bring those people in and spread some Christmas cheer.
Matt Taylor, CEO of Age UK Reading, said: “It’s just a lovely change because people’s lives can be very set in routine.
“It breaks the day-to-day, and it’s nice for them to talk, chat, and get to know each other.”
Year 8 pupils submitted ideas and volunteered for performances during the event.
One Year 8 student, Charlie, said: “I think it’s really important as part of Leighton Park’s Outreach programme to get involved with certain charities and invite them into our school and do parties with them.
“I get that older people don’t always have a family to go home for Christmas, and I think it means a lot that they come here and spend time with us.”
Becky Edwards applauded the students’ efforts.
She said: “It’s been fantastic to see the Year 8s leading and putting on a show that they wanted to be part of.
“I’m proud of them, and it’s been a fantastic event for them to put on for the community.”
For information, visit: leightonpark.com and ageuk.org.uk/reading
