Bridging The Gap
“Bridging The Gap” afternoon was an inaugural and exciting event that was run by the East Guildford Confederation in partnership with St Peter’s Catholic Comprehensive School, George Abbot and Surrey Police. The purpose of the afternoon was to build trust between the elderly members of our community and the young.
The event was hosted by St Peter’s on Thursday 13th November. The Heads from the two schools Robert Guinea and Danny Moloney warmly welcomed the guests. Sherry and afternoon tea was provided for over 100 local residents of the Merrow and Burpham areas with entertainment provided by students from both schools. Guests came from St John’s Wednesday Morning Coffee Club at Merrow, the Evergreen Club at Bushy Hill, and the Boxgrove Association as well as many individual guests from the area. The oldest guest was 95. St Peter’s started the entertainment with lively top quality music by St Peter’s Jazz Band and the marvellous singing of “Blue Suede Shoes” by two Sixth Formers whilst Year 11 world class Irish Dancer Kevin Goble entertained the guests with a stunning and exciting Irish dance accompanied by amazing drumming. George Abbot students entertained the guests with a powerful rendition from “The Marriage of Figaro”, a brilliant dance routine, two outstanding sets of drama from “The Crucible” and “The Importance of Being Earnest” and an excellent duet with guitar accompaniment. Afternoon tea was served by the students from both schools who then joined local residents to swap stories and exchange views.
Bridging The Gap was a fantastic success – there was laughter and jollity all afternoon and everyone was sad when the raffle had been drawn, the coaches and drivers arrived and it was time to go.
Community Safety Sergeant Tina Griffiths said “This exciting and innovative event was organised to alter young and old peoples perceptions of each other and to enhance greater understanding of the issues that both groups face. The Safer Guildford Partnership has funded this event to help bring these two groups together and we are delighted to have had the support of St Peter’s, George Abbot and the East Guildford Confederation.”
Sue Giddings, Manager of East Guildford Confederation said “There is always uncertainty when organising an innovative new event. However, “Bridging The Gap” proved to be a very positive experience for all participants.
The students demonstrated exceptional talents in all aspects of music, dance and drama and also their caring and positive attitudes towards older members of the community. Both young and old clearly hugely enjoyed the afternoon and participated with enthusiasm in the event which really did “Bridge the Gap” and enabled both age groups to communicate, and share and value opinions.”
