It was Year 4’s Archie Day on Thursday 17^th February, the children learnt more about this important project and for the first time in two years the St Saviour's Archie team were able to go to the care home (even if it was just into the garden). When in the front garden of Oriel Lodge they sung a song to the residents who remained inside – this was a magical moment for both the children and residents.

The Archie Project is an exciting intergenerational dementia awareness project that links local primary schools, care homes/ sheltered housing schemes, businesses/ services and community members to ultimately dispel the fear and stigma often associated with dementia and create more dementia friendly communities.

St. Saviour’s Juniors have established link with this project and have been involved for many years. Before the pandemic, Year 4 children would have visited the care home on a weekly basis to play games and have fun with the residents. Research has shown that this is very beneficial for the elderly residents as well as the children and with the experiences as something the children will remember for life, whilst helping them promote the school values of respect and empathy. 

As we emerge from the pandemic we are finding new ways to share experiences with the residents through creating and send them work, video calling and now singing from their garden!

"I felt like the residents were really happy and cheerful as ever.  I felt excited when I was dancing."
Evie

"I felt so happy and excited. I really wanted to talk to them. I was so pleased to see them smiles and I loved the singing. I loved seeing Jude's neighbour and to know that she remembered him." 

Edith

"I felt happy when we were signing. I felt excited when Caroline was joining in."

 Iuli

"When we got there, I felt nervous. At the end I felt emotional and sad, but happy sad!."

Harry

"I felt happy when we arrived, overjoyed when we were singing and a little bit sad when we left."

Eilidh

"I felt happy because I saw someone I knew."

Reuben

" I felt happy, relaxed and energetic. I felt pleased to meet them."

Ava