Community spirit is blooming at Knowles Primary School with the grand opening of The Linden Room, a dedicated intergenerational space designed to bring children and retirement home residents together.
The launch marks a significant milestone in the school’s pioneering Enrichment Programme, which sees the entire school come off the standard timetable every Friday morning to learn new skills and discover hidden talents.
The room is named after the Linden tree - historically a central gathering point for village communities - and it has been designed to be a calm, welcoming sanctuary. Just as the Linden tree is known for its heart-shaped leaves and protective shade, this room is intended to be a place of comfort and connection.
"Linden trees were traditionally planted in village centres so people could meet underneath them. That’s why our Linden Room is a place for kindness, sharing, and being together," said assistant headteacher Lucy Whitmore.
Every Friday, the space will become the hub for the Tea & Togetherness Club, when pupils will welcome friends from a Bletchley retirement home.
"Residents and pupils will bond over puzzles, board games, knitting, and mindful colouring, all accompanied by friendly conversation and the essential tea and biscuits," Lucy added, "The sessions are designed to build genuine community connections and share skills across generations."
The weeekly enrichment hour will also see other students engaging in activities including pottery and musical theatre to rollerdisco in the gym and cooking in the Orchard Kitchen.
"By dedicating time to these non-academic pursuits, Knowles Primary aims to foster confidence, teamwork, and practical life skills that go beyond the textbook," she added.
