A community centre in Wycombe Marsh was transported to France for an afternoon when students from The Highcrest Academy turned up to meet senior citizens.

Ten pupils from Year 7 at the school in High Wycombe were invited by a non-profit community organisation called ‘Singing Across the Ages’ to a French café at the Wrights Meadow Centre.

The aim of the event, held in May, was for young people to interact with senior citizens and teach them some French while learning themselves.

Gaynor Weldon, senior vice principal at the academy, said: “The hall was set up just like a French café with volunteers who were organising the event dressed up in French costumes. 

“Several senior citizens were seated and our students joined them at the tables, singing French songs and then teaching them French phrases where they ordered drinks, bread and cheese or croissants. 

“The highlight of the event was when the students danced to the can-can which they really enjoyed.”

Former teacher June Moxon, who runs ‘Singing Across the Ages’ with Stephen and Dawn Boyes, said: “The idea of each of the sessions is to encourage and develop interaction between adults and children.

“The Highcrest students certainly achieved this. They were so caring, helpful and patient, and went beyond my expectations.”

She added: “This initiative came from caring for an elderly lady and witnessing the amazing interaction between her and her three-year-old great-grand-daughter.

“Volunteering at the Wrights Meadow Centre gave me the venue and the audience. I have now run several of these events with schools and they have gone really well.

“The feedback has been very positive. I have just received some funding from Wycombe District Council to buy equipment and The Big Local has also given me some money to finance resources, photocopying, refreshments, and hall hire.

“The money is much appreciated as these are all charitable events.”