Building Bridges Between Generations

Sheridan Dinsdale

Teacher - Vocational Major 

Personal Development Skills

As part of their current Area of Study, Year 12 VCE Vocational Major students have been researching the Australian aged care industry, and exploring ways to support older people to feel cared for and connected to their community. Through this research, students identified that social isolation among elderly residents as a significant community issue, and so the students decided to focus their project on building intergenerational connections.

To put their findings into action, students planned and prepared a series of activities designed to engage residents at Boyne Russell House (184 Victoria St, Brunswick). These visits provide students with an invaluable opportunity to interact with residents, foster meaningful relationships, and raise awareness of aged care needs within the local community.

The project allows students to bring together theory and practice - applying planning and organisational skills, considering health and safety requirements, and reflecting on the ethical aspects of working with vulnerable members of the community. It also provides rich evidence for their documentation, analysis, and presentation of project outcomes.

So far, students have made two visits to Boyne Russell House. The first visit was a meet-and-greet, aimed at getting to know the residents and understanding their interests. 

Melissa Sherlock

Year 12

I got to know Margaret and John. Margaret was always happy and wanted to be doing something, while John was quieter but smiled and joined in when I spoke with him. The residents at my table were so excited to see us and tell us about their week. 

I connected really well with Margaret – she told me lots about her life and where she went to school.

The second visit gave students the chance to carry out their planned activities. 

Osman Ali

Year 12

This time the residents were more comfortable with us. We played Uno and Ludo with Molly and Indi. While we played, we chatted about their past and asked them questions. One of the highlights was Molly putting down a Draw 4 card on Moe – it made us all laugh! 

Next time, I think we should bring more gifts because they really loved them. The biggest thing I learned was that it doesn’t take much to put a smile on their faces – a little really does go a long way.

This is an ongoing project that reflects the spirit of care and connection at BSC, and our commitment to the schools values. Our Year 12 students have laid the foundations for a meaningful partnership with Boyne Russell House, building relationships with residents and creating moments of joy through their visits. As these students prepare to graduate, they are proudly passing the baton to the Year 11 VCE Vocational Major class, who will continue the program into Term 4 and throughout 2026, ensuring this valuable connection grows even stronger.

Being an active part of the local community is an important value at BSC, and partnerships like this give our students the opportunity to give back, learn from others, and strengthen the bonds that connect us all.

To help make the residents’ spaces feel warmer and more welcoming, we are inviting contributions from our school community. If you have items such as books, small decorations, or games that you think may brighten a resident’s room, please email Sheridan Dinsdale or Sally Goss with details. Every little gesture helps bring comfort and happiness to those living at Boyne Russell House.