Meaningful connections were fostered through projects and activities designed by students and residents working together to bring new ideas to fruition. Forming part of a co-designed assessment task, the groups worked through the process of proposing, planning, and executing their idea, which came in all shapes and sizes. 

When a group of students and residents shared their mutual appreciation of exercise and the outdoors, excursions to the Botanical Gardens or Lake Weeroona facilitated positive experiences and interactions. Enthusiasm to learn more about history saw another excursion head to the RSL Museum in Pall Mall for shared learning, while the sharing of life experiences saw another group create symbolic representations of significant aspects of a resident’s life on a guitar, painted and decorated by the group.

Shared stories identify that we all have many things in common and enrich the connections between generations. Stories of life on the farm prompted a visit to the Trade Training Centre, and an experience with the sheep and cattle being prepared for the Bendigo Show. With excitement and laughter a common thread in all activities, our students were demonstrating growth in their interpersonal capabilities and understanding of another generation.

Our students thrive on these opportunities to live out our Mercy charism, extending the hands of hospitality and compassion. In a joint project with our Year 10 Hospitality group, our students welcomed residents into the College for High Tea in the beautiful St Mary’s Courtyard. Stories, delicious food, laughter and even a few flowers from the garden were shared, ending the year on a high note.

An afternoon of games, activities and singing marked the end of October at Bethlehem, as students found creative ways to serve the Mercy community. As the semester drew to a close, we appreciated the opportunity to celebrate Class Masses together, sharing our faith experiences in both the St Mary’s Chapel and the Bethlehem Chapel. To mark the occasion of the final visits, our families were invited to join us at Bethlehem and experience the power of intergenerational connections firsthand, putting faces and voices to the names heard in many a story throughout the semester.

Meanwhile, our Year 11 classes concluded their online program, having the final video meetings with residents from Mercy Place Shepparton and Mercy Place Ave Maria Shepparton. The Year 11 students built on their Year 10 experience, continuing to serve the Mercy world by creating meaningful engagements with residents from afar. Despite the distance, conversations were enjoyed and connections created. A highlight of the semester was the onsite visits early in the term, connecting students and residents face-to-face.

While fun, laughter and positive energy filled the air, the iGEN program continues to empower students to thrive and serve in our Mercy community and live out the values of our College. Personal growth, improved skills and experiences that change lives were all part of the program in 2025, and we look forward to new and exciting ideas in 2026.