Pupils from Rydal Penrhos and Ysgol Eirias bring laughter to nursing home residents in Colwyn Bay

Merton Place, a ClwydAlyn Housing nursing home based in Colwyn Bay, enjoy regular visits from local pupils at Rydal Penrhos and Ysgol Eirias, who are bringing joy and companionship to its residents. This partnership, which has developed over many years, offers regular events and activities that strengthen the connection between Merton Place and these schools, brightening the lives of residents throughout the year.

Recently, Rydal Penrhos’ reception pupils enjoyed a lively and memorable day organised in collaboration with Little Movers North Wales and ClwydAlyn. The dance, music and movement company created an engaging celebration centred around fireworks, with the children dancing joyfully with colourful ribbons. Pupils also sang songs and had great fun popping bubbles alongside the residents, fostering a wonderful intergenerational connection. A highlight of the event was a specially learnt and performed dance routine by the pupils, prepared just for the occasion. Cara Paton, owner of Little Movers North Wales, brings her workshops to life with her own props, music and imaginative activities.

This visit is just one part of a longstanding partnership between Merton Place and local schools, where Rydal Penrhos preschool pupils visit monthly for playtime with residents, while older students join as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award. To close the year on a festive note, the school will be performing a holiday choir concert, creating even more joyful memories.

Ysgol Eirias is also actively involved with Merton Place. Every Thursday during term time, Year 13 Health and Social Care pupils visit to interact with residents, gaining hands-on experience within the health and social care sector. Now in its second successful year, the programme has become a favourite with both residents and students, who cherish the time spent together.

These interactions have become highly anticipated, providing a bridge to the wider community. Each age group brings its own unique benefit: young children with their innocent laughter, and older students with stories of their dreams and future ambitions. Residents enjoy listening to the students’ perspectives on modern life, while pupils learn the importance of listening and connecting with an older generation. Together, they’re discovering that age differences fade away in the face of shared experiences.

Having the pupils from Rydal Penrhos and Ysgol Eirias visit Merton Place brings such warmth and excitement to our residents. Their energy lights up the room, and the connections that are formed mean so much to everyone involved. We’re so grateful for the school’s continued commitment to bringing our community together in such a meaningful way.

Christina Hale

Care Home Manager at Merton Place

We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with Merton Place, where pupils of all ages can connect with residents in fun and heartfelt ways. Each visit gives our pupils a chance to give back, learn, and discover the joys of bringing happiness to others. These moments are as memorable for our students as they are for the residents, and seeing the younger pupils light up the room with their laughter and playful energy is truly special.

Tom Hutchinson

Principal at Rydal Penrhos

Claire Hughes-Roberts, Lead Teacher for Health and Social Care at Ysgol Eirias commented: “Our Year 13 students have found these visits to Merton Place deeply impactful. Beyond their Health and Social Care studies, they’re gaining invaluable hands-on experience that builds empathy, understanding, and communication skills. The relationships they’re building here will leave a lasting impression on them, and we’re proud to be part of such a meaningful community initiative.”

These partnerships between Merton Place and local schools create a true sense of community, bringing together people of all ages to share stories and experiences. The residents cherish the chance to connect with young people, and the students gain invaluable life lessons, creating lasting bonds across generations.