Bridging the Generations: Celebration of Partnership with Royal Star & Garter as part of National Intergenerational Week

In an era where the digital divide often separates the youth from the elderly, Southborough High School is proving that meaningful connection knows no age limit. For a good number of years, the school has championed a deep-rooted commitment to community service, urging students to look beyond the classroom and support the most vulnerable members of society. Central to this mission is a flourishing three-year partnership with the Royal Star & Garter in Surbiton, a dedicated home for elderly ex-veterans.

A Two-Way Street of Respect

The relationship is far more than a simple volunteer programme; it is a reciprocal exchange of wisdom and energy. While the Year 8 and 9 Young Leaders group makes regular visits to host bingo nights or tend to the gardens, the veterans provide a living history for the students. By visiting the school to share first hand accounts of military service—including harrowing and heroic tales of the D-Day landings—the residents offer an educational experience that no textbook could ever replicate.

Celebrating National Intergenerational Week

Last week, this partnership reached new heights as Southborough High School celebrated National Intergenerational Week. Students from across all year groups engaged in a daily programme of activities designed to foster empathy and mutual respect.

The week was packed with standout moments that showcased the diverse talents of the student body:

Monday: Alfie, a Year 11 student and member of the Junior Magic Circle, captivated residents with a professional-standard magic performance.

Tuesday: Year 10 Catering students took over the kitchen, preparing and serving a themed military lunch. The menu featured creatively named dishes such as ‘Pepperoni Parade’ pizza and ‘Chocolate Commando Cake,’ alongside a traditional ‘Victory Sponge of Honour.’

Wednesday: The Eco Club rolled up their sleeves to assist with seasonal maintenance in the home’s expansive gardens.

Thursday: In a prestigious finale, the Mayor of Kingston, Councillor Noel Hadjimichael, visited the home to unveil a bespoke piece of art created by Year 10 student, Ayaan.

Art with a Purpose: The Kitwood Flower

Ayaan’s commission was not merely decorative; it was deeply symbolic. The artwork represents the Kitwood Flower, a model developed by Professor Tom Kitwood in the 1990s to illustrate the psychological needs of those living with dementia.

The piece features five petals—comfort, identity, occupation, inclusion, and attachment—all revolving around a central core of love. This framework emphasises "person-centred care," prioritising a person's emotional well-being and sense of self over basic physical requirements. The artwork was met with high praise from both staff and residents, serving as a permanent reminder of the school's commitment to understanding the complexities of ageing.

More Than Just Lessons

Reflecting on the week, it is clear that these interactions provide invaluable life skills. By stepping into the world of the veterans, students develop a profound sense of empathy and social responsibility. As they learn from those who have lived through the defining moments of the last century, they gain a perspective that stays with them long after they leave the school gates. Southborough High School remains immensely proud of these bonds, proving that when the young and old come together, the entire community is enriched.