Newbury care home resident returns to school after 30 years

A resident at a care home in Newbury was delighted to don her teaching hat again after more than 30 years away from the blackboard.

When the team at Care UK’s Winchcombe Place, on Maple Crescent, learned that 84-year-old retired-teacher, Daphne Dawes, was keen to relive her old career, they were determined to make it happen.

Daphne began her career in education when she was in her early 20s, inspired by a passion to share her knowledge and expertise. Daphne taught for over 30 years, working in local primary schools teaching English and Religious Education as well as going on to become Head of Year 7. Highly regarded by both her students and peers alike for her passion, enthusiasm and energy, Daphne wasn’t quite ready to give up teaching completely upon retiring and spent a number of years teaching piano.

The team at Winchcombe Place arranged for Daphne to visit the home’s local primary school, The Winchcombe School, to teach an English lesson, where she was able to meet some of the children and teachers and share experiences and stories of how things have changed.

Commenting on the day, Daphne said: “I had a wonderful day! The Winchcombe School was full of laughter and eager minds – I felt the warmth of youthful enthusiasm and was reminded of the joy of teaching!”

Shirley Summerbell, Home Manager at Winchcombe Place, added: “Daphne loves to talk about her memories of teaching so, in honour of World Teacher Day, the team decided to surprise her with a trip back to school.

“Daphne had a wonderful time sharing her knowledge and experience with some of the current students and teachers, and loved having the opportunity to chat about her memories and learn how things have changed over the years. 

“I’d like to extend a big thank you to the team and students at The Winchcombe School for welcoming Daphne, and to the team here at Winchcombe Place for organising such a meaningful day for everyone involved!”

Winchcombe Place is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, nursing, dementia and short-term respite care. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hair salon and café.