Tech-savvy students from a Mickleover school brought a modern touch to a retirement housing complex during a recent visit.
Murray Park Community School pupils visited Holly Court to spend time with the residents and share their expertise on effective technology use.
The five students, all studying computer science, offered support and guidance on using laptops, phones and tablets and answered any technology-related questions the residents had.
The pupils were also invited to join in the centre’s traditional activities such as bingo and a game called higher or lower and were spoiled with biscuits and treats during their visit.
Bright Oyedeji, 15, said: “I think it’s important to help the community and older people. I’ve enjoyed being here and helping the residents learn something we find simple, but they find hard, like saving contacts and calling people.”
Ethan Howe, 14, said: “I really like helping people. I helped a lady sync up her Bluetooth and her iCloud so now she can see her photos on her iPhone and her iPad.
“She was so happy to be able to do that.”
Haider Ali, 15, said: “I like trying new things and have enjoyed working with the elderly residents. When I leave school, I want to do a job working with computers, so it has been nice to teach people how to use their phones and technology.”
The residents enjoyed the student’s company and said they were welcome back to join in with dominoes next week.
Wendy Holland, 76, said: “My son gave me a new iPhone recently and I have been determined to use it. I can do the basics like call and text, but the students have shown me how to use voice activation and put numbers in, so I don’t have to use my address book every time.”
Beryl Hickenbotham, 88, said: “I think it’s great for the generations to mix, they have brightened the place up. It has been so nice to chat with the younger ones, they have been very patient and kind.”
Jane Lindsay, a social prescriber who works at the centre thought that the technology support was an excellent way to get them all talking.
She said: “The technology support provided by the students has been a wonderful way to bring generations together.
“This event has been a great opportunity for residents and students to connect and learn from each other. We are always looking for ways to get the residents socialising again and the students have been fantastic.”
Tim Taylor, the school’s aspirations careers employability coordinator said: “I am incredibly proud of our students for the support and knowledge they have shared with the residents today.
“It has been a rewarding experience for everyone involved.”
This story was written and shared on behalf of Murray Park School by Sarah-Louise Elton. Can we share your news and get you in the headlines too? Find out how we can help by getting in touch.
