Haddenham

John Bercow Visits Abbeyfield

Home » News » John Bercow Visits Abbeyfield
John Bercow at Abbeyfield 04
John Bercow at Abbeyfield 02
John Bercow at Abbeyfield 03

As we reported earlier this year, Haddenham St Mary's CE School has linked up with Abbeyfield Residential Home in a project inspired by the Channel 4 programme 'Old People's Home For Four Year Olds'

At intervals throughout the academic year, staff from the school take a small group of children to visit residents at the home in Churchway where they chat to residents and participate in joint activities including board games and singing.

On Friday 20th April, the group of pupils were joined by an additional guest, Speaker of the House, John Bercow MP.

John explained his role to the youngsters, saying "I'm like the referee of a football match or the umpire of a tennis match, ensuring that those speaking in the House of Commons obey the rules and do not get too angry when they disagree with each other."

He interviewed the children to explore their favourite subjects at school, and maths and science stood out most prominently.

Said one youngster: "science is really good when there are explosions! And mixing baking soda with vinegar makes a really good fizz!"

John Bercow was suitably impressed.

The visit concluded with the children singing a number of songs, including some well known tunes from The Jungle Book and Mary Poppins and a hymn with actions.

Said Abbeyfield Manager, Lindsey McGibbon: "It's lovely to have the young children meet and engage with our elderly residents, and we were especially pleased to have John Bercow here today — he has been very supportive over the years and we regard him as a good friend."

(Click on any of the images to view an enlarged version).

popular recent storiesAlso in the news

Bill Burns
Laura Burns: Fri 22 Sep 12:45pm

It is with great sadness that we have to announce that long-time Haddenham resident, beloved father and grandfather, Bill Burns, passed away peacefully at home on 6th September 2023. Bill was born and brought up in Paisley, near Glasgow in 1936. In his youth he was a track sprinter, once being part of the Scottish winning 4x100yards team for the UK championships at White City. In his 20s having...

Covid Booster 2023
Haddenham Webteam: Fri 22 Sep 7:00am

There will be a walk in clinic for COVID booster vaccinations and flu on Sunday 24th September 2023 at Vicary pharmacy (10am to 5pm) for those who are over 65. However, it is likely to be very busy.In light of the demand the pharmacy has opened up more appointments for next week and the week after. You can book through the national booking system or...

Electric Vehgicle Charging - village hall
Haddenham Webteam: Thu 21 Sep 9:30am

Electric Vehicle Hire Club — end of an era or new beginning?As the many members will already have heard, Haddenham's EV Hire Club pilot is sadly coming to an end. Having been involved from the outset, we are very disappointed that it was not possible for it to continue in its current form, and conscious of the fact that we are leaving people without a facility that was promoted by both...