Enliven Literacy with Legends pilot brings generations together

A heartwarming new pilot programme in Southland is bringing together two generations in a meaningful way, helping tamariki build literacy skills while enriching the lives of older people in aged care.

Enliven Southland, in partnership with Invercargill Middle School, has launched Enliven Literacy with Legends, an innovative intergenerational initiative where care home residents visit schools each week to listen to pupils read.

The programme had been designed to address declining literacy confidence amongst young people, while also recognising the wealth of knowledge, patience and storytelling ability held by older generations.

By creating a relaxed and supportive environment, pupils are encouraged to read aloud at their own pace, building confidence and fluency, while forming genuine, enriching connections with residents.

The pilot programme, which will run for the duration of Term 3 following a test period last term, pairs a dedicated group of Walmsley House care home residents with Invercargill Middle School pupils during weekly reading sessions. The focus is not on performance or assessment, but on creating a safe, encouraging space where reading becomes enjoyable and meaningful.

At the same time, the initiative offered residents a renewed sense of purpose, social connection and cognitive engagement, reinforcing the important role older people continue to play within the community.

Enliven Southland director Carol Riddle said the programme provided residents with enhanced well-being and a sense of purpose, increased social interaction and connection, and stimulation through conversations.

“It’s been amazing to watch the relationships grow and how some of the pupils already have their favourite residents after a short time. Some now wait for their favourite resident to be available.” 

The pilot involves collaboration with school leadership to ensure the programme supports pupils’ needs and complements classroom learning. There is also potential for future reciprocal visits, where pupils visit Enliven Southland care homes, further deepening the connection.

Invercargill Middle School teacher Atlanta Gee said staff had already seen students become more confident and willing to read aloud, with many pupils who were previously hesitant now reading with greater expression and fluency. 

“They look forward to the weekly visits, and the experience has encouraged them to see reading as something more enjoyable rather than just a classroom task.

Pupil Elsie said -“I like reading with different residents, I like that they clap at the end. I look forward to seeing them on Thursdays.”

Invercargill Middle School principal Sarah Calder said staff had been surprised by how quickly relationships had developed between the pupils and residents, and how easily the pupils had made connections with a range of different residents. 

“It has been wonderful to see the pupils become more caring and confident in their conversations, while the residents remember the children and look forward to their visits each week. It has been really special to see how much the pupils and the residents enjoy spending time together.”

For Walmsley House resident Jean Finnerty, it was her history as a primary school teacher and passion for teaching children that had prompted her to volunteer. 

“I couldn’t have children of my own, so I grab any opportunity I can to socialise with them.”

She was enjoying getting to know the children and watching the shy ones warm to her over time.

“It’s brilliant.  The kids are just great. It’s one of the best things that have happened to me in years.” 

The initiative will be closely evaluated, with the potential to expand to additional schools across Southland if successful. Enliven Southland hoped the model would become a flagship example of community-driven literacy support.

With no direct financial cost to deliver, supported through Enliven Southland transport, the programme demonstrated how collaboration could unlock meaningful change.