Year 5/6 Round Square Visits to Calvary Aged Care

By Tracey Markovic, Assistant Head of Junior School Operations

Service is one of the six Round Square IDEALS that form the foundation of the Round Square educational philosophy. It emphasises the importance of serving others and making a positive difference in the community. The IDEAL of Service encourages students to develop a spirit of empathy and compassion, to engage in meaningful service activities, and to contribute to the well-being of others.

Earlier this year, our Year 5/6 Round Square students expressed an interest in visiting Calvary Aged Care to spend time and connect with members of our community. Ms Kath Notley introduced us to Betty, Calvary’s Diversional Therapist, who has been pivotal in our visits.

Each fortnight, students from Round Square have visited Calvary to spend time getting to know the residents. Family stories were told, photos of loved ones shared, and family trees drawn. There was even a friendly debate on whether big dogs are better than little dogs!

Last Friday, during their visit to Calvary, students entertained the residents with a Mother’s Day concert. The piano was played, dances were danced, songs were sung, and a few skits and jokes were shared (if you haven’t seen the skit about the invisible bench, you must! It brought about many a giggle from our audience). Students and residents enjoyed spending time together, laughing and smiling. At the conclusion of the performances, students had the opportunity to interact with the residents, reconnecting and finding out what they enjoyed the most.

We are very much looking forward to our next visit to Calvary to see our friends and connect with new ones.