Chichester community joins together for Oliver!

Over 100 pupils and staff from Portfield Primary School joined residents from Lakeview Grange Care Home for a special “open door” performance of the musical Oliver! at Westbourne House School in Chichester.

'We wanted to create a memorable experience that brought generations together,' said Westbourne House Headmaster, Martin Barker.

'Our Year 5 and 6 pupils created a joyful production of Oliver! and it was such a treat to welcome residents from Lakeview Grange Care Home and Portfield Primary School pupils in Years 3 and 4.'

Mary Oliver, Lakeview Grange Care Home Wellbeing and Lifestyle Co-ordinator, said: 'What a fantastic show! The production was incredibly polished and professional, and we were all amazed by the talent, confidence and energy of the young performers. It was all we could talk about on the bus ride home.

'It was especially lovely meeting the children after the performance. They were so warm and relaxed, happily chatting, sharing stories and making sure everyone felt welcome.

'We were also made to feel like true VIPs, with front row seats and delicious interval refreshments served to us – a thoughtful touch that meant a lot to our residents,' she added.


After the show pupils from Portfield Primary School were buzzing. 'The gun shot bangs were so real,' one student exclaimed while the others added: 'I loved clapping to the songs,' and 'Bill Sikes was quite scary.'

Mr Simmonds, a class teacher at Portfield Primary, said: 'We all absolutely loved watching Oliver! at Westbourne House School. The Year 5 and 6 pupils performed brilliantly – the children really are a credit to the school.'

Mary Oliver added: 'Our residents said what a wonderful experience it was, and how special it felt to be part of such a vibrant community event. We’re already looking forward to more intergenerational projects in the future.'

March 2026