Orpington care home residents and schoolchildren flock together

A care home in Orpington was joined by local youngsters who swooped in to celebrate the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch.

Residents at Care UK’s Foxbridge House, on Sevenoaks Road, were joined by pupils from Perry Hall Primary School for a hands-on nature activity decorating birdboxes to encourage more feathered friends into the local area. 

Each pupil worked with a resident to fasten the screws on the birdbox and carefully design and decorate the new homes. Residents and pupils also ventured into the home's garden to observe various local birds, counting the difference species. 

The activities were part of the world's largest garden wildlife survey, which helps the RSPB monitor species population and trends. 

Their creations will be proudly displayed at both the care home’s garden and the school playground to welcome more wildlife into the outdoor spaces.

Resident Jo Churchley, 82, said of the day: “I thoroughly enjoyed helping the children make and decorate their birdboxes. They were all so excited, especially when they found out they could take them back to school.

“I told them that the boxes we put up last year all had Blue Tits move in, and it was so special to see the babies fledge. I hope the children will be able to experience that as well.”

Stella Barnes, Home Manager at Foxbridge House, said: “We were delighted to be part of the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch again this year and to be playing our part in this important national survey.

"It was great to spend time watching our feathered friends and to welcome the youngsters from Perry Hall Primary School for a fun day of bird crafts. Everyone absolutely loved the day and had so much fun.

"Our wonderful creations will now be placed in the garden as a lasting reminder of the lovely time we spent together."

Foxbridge House has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to lead active and fulfilling lives. The home provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care, and has its very own cinema, hair and beauty salon and pub.