A reading mentoring programme that places retired seniors with primary school children has proven to be beneficial for everyone, according to the creators of the unique scheme.

Last February, YouthNet launched the programme to utilise the experience, knowledge and understanding from older adults from the community, which helps to bridge the generation gap.

YouthNet is a public school-based curriculum which currently serves 400 pupils in 17 schools with their mission to "Keeping Students Focused Through Mentoring".

Its seniors mentoring programme was introduced as an experiment from last February to June – now it's going strong in its second year with 50 seniors serving 200 students.

YouthNet executive director Clare Mello said: "Our school-based mentoring programme provides a comfortable environment for seniors and retirees to interact with young people.

"It also provides opportunities for seniors to become more involved in the lives of young people."

Yesterday, The Royal Gazette visited the Victor Scott Primary School to see the seniors interact with the primary one and two children.

Teacher Sarah Kaiser, also the co-ordinator for the lower school, said the programme was working: "Many of (our children) do not have seniors in their lives that they're intimate with and spend time reading with.

"This opportunity has given the children not only the chance to read, but to establish lifelong relationships with people who are very knowledgeable, kind and compassionate."

For Vera Scott, 85, who has volunteered one hour a week at Victor Scott since its inception, her involvement in the programme was motivated by her love of children.

"I'm home and my children are all grown," she revealed, "so I thought it would be something nice for me to do – and I do enjoy it, I like the kids very much.

"I have no complaints, the kids are very nice, they love to read, I think they like to know that someone has taken care of them. They like the love that I give to them as well."

In accordance with YouthNet's guiding principles, the programme offers meaningful volunteer opportunities for seniors in a safe and structured environment. Those looking to volunteer their time in the programme should call 294-5589.