Care Home Joins with School for Intergenerational DIY Project

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Canbury School pupils help fix up Sherwood Grange

School children work to fix up the exterior areas of the home

October 31, 2025

Residents at Sherwood Grange care home in Kingston Vale recently collaborated with pupils from Canbury School on a hands-on DIY activity to mark International Repair Day. The event was part of Care UK’s national ‘Fixer Uppers’ initiative, which encourages older adults to share traditional repair skills with younger generations while promoting sustainability.

The joint project focused on renovating the care home’s outdoor area, with participants repainting and refreshing garden furniture. Resident Crista described the experience as a positive one, saying, “It was such a joy painting the garden with the students from Canbury School. We shared stories, laughter, and made some lovely memories together. I’m already looking forward to their next visit!”

Sherwood Grange Home Manager Malgo Wcislo noted that the activity provided an opportunity for residents to pass on practical knowledge developed over many years. “Residents have honed their DIY skills over a lifetime, and the Fixer Uppers project has been a fantastic way for them to connect with young people and share practical knowledge in a meaningful way,” she said. “It was wonderful to see everyone fully engaged and residents swapping stories, learning from one another and genuinely enjoying the process.”

The 'fixer-uppers' from Canbury School

The Fixer Uppers programme was launched to coincide with International Repair Day and aims to revive everyday maintenance skills such as furniture restoration and clothing repair. It also highlights the value of intergenerational learning and community engagement.

Sherwood Grange, located on Robin Hood Lane, offers full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite stays. The home includes facilities such as a cinema, café, and salon, and is designed to support residents in leading active and independent lives. Its layout features individual suites with dedicated lounge and dining areas to foster smaller community groups within the home.

Further information about the Fixer Uppers initiative is available at careuk.com/Fixer-Uppers.

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