There was a hive of activity recently at Harwin Retirement Village when year 8 students from Thomas More College visited as part of a community service initiative.

Teacher Louise Eldridge said the aim of the visit was to allow the students to help people within the local community. The students swept, pruned and weeded and also assisted with food preparation and service, before sharing a morning tea and playing board games, cards and eight-ball, and taking knitting lessons with the village residents.

Ms Eldridge said that the students loved the opportunity to meet new people and experience things they have never done before.

Principal Andrew Balkwill said that the school wants their students to thrive in today’s world, hence the importance of connecting with people in the wider community.

Harwin’s Promotions and Events Coordinator, Anna Zinenko, said everyone at the village had a wonderful time engaging with the younger generation and thanked all those who participated.

Staying connected to others is vital to feeling happy and secure, and social connection can be a protective factor against anxiety and depression, says beyondblue.