Buckie pupils bring stories to life for care home residents
Buckie Community High School pupils are bringing stories to life for local care home residents through a new intergenerational reading project.
As part of the school’s work towards a Gold Award in the Reading Schools programme, S2 pupils have been spending one afternoon a week at Parklands Care Home, reading with residents and taking time to chat, listen and share experiences.
During the sessions, pupils have shared a wide range of books including crime and detective fiction, romance and history novels.
The project has given pupils the chance to step outside the classroom, build confidence in reading aloud and form meaningful relationships with older members of the community.
S2 pupil Jacob Shand said it had meant a lot to him: “I love helping out the community by reading, chatting and looking out for people. At Parklands Care Home not only did I read, but I also learned all about their amazing lives and what their childhood was like. I have signed up to do reading again and represent our school.”
Buckie Community High School, which achieved Silver Reading Schools status in 2023, piloted the partnership with an initial group of 32 pupils. Following its success, more than 50 pupils have now signed up to take part in the next phase of the project.
Head Teacher Jemma Playfair said: “This project has been incredibly special for our pupils and for the residents involved. It’s not just about reading - it’s about kindness, confidence and connection. Our young people have grown in confidence, empathy and communication skills and they’ve taken pride in representing the school within the community. We’re delighted to see how positive the experience has been for everyone.
“I’d like to acknowledge Miss Loveland and Mr Laidlaw in particular, who have done a wonderful job organising and delivering these sessions.”
Cllr Kathleen Robertson, Chair of Moray Council’s Education, Children’s and Leisure Services Committee, added: “This is a wonderful example of young people making a difference in their local community. Projects like this bring generations together, support wellbeing and help pupils develop confidence and life skills that will stay with them far beyond the classroom.”