Joan's dream to return to the classroom comes true

A long-held dream of returning to the classroom has come true for an elderly Teignmouth care home resident.

Joan Allum, who will celebrate her 99th birthday later this month, visited Class 4 at Our Lady and St Patrick (OLSP) RC Primary School in Teignmouth on Wednesday 5th June 2024.

The visit was organised as part of the White House care home’s ‘Just One Wish’ campaign, which aims to fulfil residents’ long-held dreams. After Joan expressed her deep longing to revisit her past as a teacher, staff leapt into action and partnered with OLSP to make her wish come true.

Joan teaching to class 4 pupils

Children from Class 4 at OLSP were keen to ask questions about what schooling was like when Joan was a teacher in the 1950s, 60s and 70s. Joan taught in schools in both the UK and Australia, including at a children’s hospital where some pupils were wheeled down to the classroom in their beds as they recuperated from spinal operations. Joan was fascinated by the work children get up to in school today and was thrilled when some children shared their workbooks so she could see how things have changed since she retired.

Joan shared that she had ‘always wanted to be a teacher’ and that she had taught for 36 years, specialising in English. Her favourite part of the job was when she used to greet the children every morning and they would reply ‘Good Morning Mrs Allum’.

After the visit, Joan remarked on how much she enjoyed the experience, highlighting the children’s good behaviour and the pleasure of looking through their books. She was particularly fascinated by how they learned to add up money, reflecting her enduring passion for education.

‘Witnessing Joan’s wish come to life was a magical moment for all of us,’ said White House care home manager Tracie Bowen. ‘This is exactly what the 'Just One Wish Campaign' is all about – transforming dreams into reality and creating lasting, unforgettable memories that enrich lives. We want to thank OLSP for welcoming Joan. It was a fantastic day,’ she added.

The White House care home is part of the Centrum Care Group.

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