Residents at HC-One’s Ebor Court Care Home in Nether Poppleton, York were treated to an unforgettable day when four enthusiastic students from Askham Bryan College visited as part of their King’s Trust Level 2 programme.
Accompanied by staff members Declan, Dave and Rich, the students came to the home to build confidence, strengthen communication skills and gain hands-on experience. What unfolded was something truly special.
The day began with an unexpected and enchanting surprise: the arrival of a stunning spectacled owl named Jesse. With striking white facial markings and gentle dark eyes, Jesse quickly captivated residents and students alike. Calm, patient and beautifully behaved, he allowed residents to stroke his soft feathers while learning more about his species. Many described the experience as “once in a lifetime.”
Throughout the morning, the students visited each floor of the home, enjoying conversations with residents and hearing their stories. As the day went on, their confidence grew, sparking meaningful interactions and genuine connections. In the afternoon, everyone came together for a lively and laughter-filled game of Monopoly.
Lifestyle Manager Denise Cooper said:
“It was truly wonderful to see how this simple activity brought generations together, building connections and boosting well-being for everyone involved.”
Home Manager Yvonne Penrose added:
“Intergenerational engagement is so important for our residents. It helps boost mood, memory and confidence, and offers new experiences, like meeting Jesse the owl. It was a fantastic educational day for both residents and students. For the students, it provided invaluable real-world skills in communication, empathy and teamwork, qualities that will serve them far beyond the classroom.”
The team at Ebor Court expressed their gratitude to Askham Bryan College and The King’s Trust programme for giving students the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in their community, and for creating memories residents will cherish.
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