'Grandfriends' are thanked

Umina Public School has officially thanked the 10 "Grandfriends" who helped at the school and Council on the Ageing recently.

The Grandfriends were presented with certificates in recognition of their contribution to the school.

The Grandfriends were senior citizens who had been helping for one to two hours per week in classes with Ms Hughes, Ms Crossland, Ms Pritchard, Ms McKenna, with Year 1 in the Book Nook, and with some Year 6 children, individually sharing their carpentry skills.

The Grandfriends commented on their experience at the school this year stating "It makes me feel younger", "It keeps me young and active", "I am amazed at the ability of the kids for their age" and "It keeps my mind active and brings back memories of 40 years of teaching".

Some of the Grandfriends also commented that they were "tremendously impressed with the standard of work in Kindergarten these days" and that they "like the respect and the good manners the children have".

Currently six schools on the Peninsula have the Grandfriends Program.

Anyone wanting more information about becoming a Grandfriend at Umina Public School can contact 4342 2340 or 4341 1630.

Press release, February 17 Debbie Notara, Beachside Family Centre