When Mr Mawhinney, Maths Teacher at St Modwen’s Catholic Primary School, emailed us in February with an idea, we were intrigued. His plan was to take a group of Year 6 pupils into Poplars Nursing Home to introduce residents to the technology they use in school and share their TT Rock Stars skills.
A few months later, the visit took place and it was fantastic to see the idea come to life.
The students arrived with their tablets and spent time showing residents how they use TT Rock Stars to practise their times tables. Some residents enjoyed having a go themselves, while others preferred to watch, ask questions and chat with the children about school and their own experiences.
The students showed great patience and maturity throughout the session, adapting to each resident and making sure everyone could get involved in their own way.
Care home staff noticed how engaged and relaxed the atmosphere was, with residents enjoying the opportunity to interact with the children and try something new.
The visit was a great example of how maths and technology can create opportunities beyond the classroom; helping children share their learning while building connections with their local community.
Joanne Clamp (Poplars Care Home) also provided us with a list illustrating the impact of the visit on the care home:
- Residents enjoyed meaningful social interaction with local children.
- Opportunities were created for residents to engage with modern technology.
- Positive conversations and reminiscence were encouraged.
- Children developed greater understanding of older people and dementia.
- Stronger community links were established between the school and Poplars Nursing Home.
A big well done to Mr Mawhinney, the Year 6 students at St Modwen’s Catholic Primary School and the team at Poplars Nursing Home for making it happen!