This week Marc and I had the privilege to go to Torpoint Nursery and Infant school to meet with staff and children who have come up with one of the best projects I have seen for a very long time.
It is called Silver Stories and it is bringing the generations together.
It involves pupils doing their reading once a week to an older member of the community over the phone.
Our patron Esther Rantzen went down to launch the project a few weeks ago.
In the school library the walls are full of quotes from those who are Silver Listeners such as ” You read that beautifully, I will look forward to hearing the next chapter next week,” ” I am really enjoying this story, can’t wait to hear more.”
It was obvious just listening to the recipient of the calls that they had built up a lovely relationship with the young people, and looked forward to speaking to them.
I asked one of the readers what they liked about their Silver Stories the reply,” I like sharing my stories.”
This project is brilliant in its simplicity.
Just for a few moments two generations are joined together and focusing on each other.
We hope to be able to approach other schools to get involved.
Jane