News

Ky P-12 bridges generations through reading initiative

By Ryan Bellingham

Sep 17, 2025

Primary kids from Kyabram P-12 College paid a visit to residents of Warramunda Village for R U OK? Day. Roslyn Petrie and Hanami Marquez. Photo by Ryan Bellingham

Kids from Kyabram P-12 College took their favourite books to Warramunda Village for R U OK? Day to share special stories with the residents.

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Students from Years 3 and 4 arrived by bus on the morning of Thursday, September 11 and headed upstairs to greet and read to around 20 residents.

Max Fisher, Bev Denson and Ryan Swetman. Photo by Ryan Bellingham

Rita Norman and Jaxon Munro. Photo by Ryan Bellingham

The initiative was a boon to students and residents alike, with all embracing the opportunity to connect with one another.

Dougie McCready, a skilled reader in Year 3, said he had thoroughly enjoyed reading one of his most cherished books, Giraffes Can’t Dance, to the wise residents.

Dougie McCready and Joyce Read. Photo by Ryan Bellingham

“I’ve found it very interesting how all the people really connect with me and how they can connect with the book,” he said.

“They’ve got so much to tell, and they can give me their knowledge.”

Logan Tinning and Margaret Smith. Photo by Ryan Bellingham

Chase Baumann, Oliver McInnes and Bert Woodcock. Photo by Ryan Bellingham

Year 3/4 classroom teacher Courtney Zito said the event provided a great opportunity for students to engage with others in town.

Not only did the event help to bridge generational gaps, but it was also in line with educational outcomes, including literacy development.

Alissa Yarygin and Con Cammarata. Photo by Ryan Bellingham

Noel Roberts and Oliver McInnes. Photo by Ryan Bellingham

“I think it was a good chance for our students to get out in the community, meet some people, and also have a practice at reading aloud,” Ms Zito said.

“It’s all about connection. They understand that, we talk about that. And it’s a chance to connect with different people from different generations.”