04 April 2025
Every Wednesday, groups of prefects visit Ms Western’s prep class in the Junior School to accompany the boys on their trip to Vailima Gardens Retirement Community. This weekly tradition is both heartwarming and enriching, offering a chance to forge meaningful connections across generations.
Upon arrival, the prep boys proudly serve their homemade scones to the residents, a small but heartfelt gesture that brings joy to the Vailima friends. The boys then engage in various activities, including reading, puzzles, drawing, arts & crafts, and even listening to the resident’s life stories. As I listen to their conversations, I can feel the warm atmosphere created by their wholesome interactions, filling the retirement community with laughter and energy.
For the prep boys, these visits are more than just an outing, they’re an opportunity to learn important life skills like empathy, patience and respect for the elderly. Meanwhile, the residents visibly light up in the boys’ presence, enjoying their youthful enthusiasm and forming bonds that transcend age.
As Prefects, we also benefit greatly from these visits. Not only do we strengthen our relationship with the Junior School, but we also learn how to communicate with the younger boys, which can be both challenging and rewarding. Decoding their excited chatter or encouraging them to interact with the residents puts our communication skills to the test. I’ve found that body language often helps bridge the gap when words don’t quite work.
Overall, these weekly trips to Vailima are emotionally fulfilling for everyone involved. Witnessing conversations unfold across generations is a powerful reminder of how simple moments of connection can leave a lasting impact.
Tiger Liu
School Vice-Captain
