Quilters RotaKids Achievements

On June 23, District Governor Jed Brooks went along to Quilters Junior School with our President, Michael Ginn, President-Elect Roger Kettle, Secretary Brian Wellman, Youth Officers Stephen King and Peter Greene, and Speaker Finder Pat Rothon.

This was a celebration of how much the children had achieved by giving them the opportunity to show us their annual presentation.

You Guys Could Be These Guys ..

Head TeacherMike Wade opened the day by letting the RotaKids introduce themselves and speaking directly to them, he said “Have a good look at these guys from Rotary.  They give their time for free to do projects and raise money to help those in need in our community and elsewhere in the world, for example the Soapbox Derby here at Sun Corner, and their project for water wells in Kenya.  You guys could be these guys in the future too.

Giving to others can make a huge difference.  I am convinced that this year’s RotaKids have made more of an impact on our community than ever.  You should be very proud.  You have made a huge difference.”

Dementia Friendly

Mike then handed over to Maureen Lee, the school’s Dementia Friendly Co-ordinator, who led the children through their presentation – every member of the RotaKids taking part and presenting a portion of the message.
Maureen has been working with the children every two weeks to develop understanding within the School of dementia, raising awareness of how to become more dementia friendly and take action to improve empathy and understanding of dementia.  In doing this they have made links across generations, developed their knowledge and skill. Every child in the Junior School is a dementia friend.  
They helped Infants’ Year 2 to become dementia friends, and with their Memory Café.  

Dementia Action Week

They have recently organised a Dementia Action Week, launching it at School Assembly, running two inter-generational art afternoons, held a Blue day (all kids come to school wearing blue), supported the Dementia Organisation – independent fund raising group of children, made badges to raise awareness, done library talks and leaflets, and supported Year 2’s displays (High Street).

Building Bridges, Reducing Isolation

They have contacted older people in the community who might otherwise be isolated, becoming Pen Pals with them and welcoming them to events at the school such as Afternoon Tea, Games Afternoon, Art afternoon, and even visiting care home residents in their homes.
As School Councillors. they have learnt about:

• Democracy - how it works, and about other groups that represent people
• Communication skills – speaking in front of others (and on camera)
• How to show empathy, support and understanding
• Planning events and taking responsibility
• How to take action add make a difference

As RotaKids “We are proud of what we have achieved.  We have worked well as a team, developed our skills and knowledge, grown in confidence and MADE A DIFFERENCE in our school and our town.
What more could we ask?