On the evening of Thursday, 22nd January 2026, Northampton International Academy hosted The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation’s (TMDF) Intergenerational Stories Exhibition, showcasing personal histories, photographs, and the results of months of collaboration between older community members and students from Northampton International Academy, part of East Midlands Academy Trust, and Northampton School for Boys. 

The initiative, made possible through a generous grant from Northamptonshire Community Foundation, was funded in full from inception to completion. 

Students from TMDF’s Official Partner Schools were paired with older adults supported by the charity.  Over the course of the programme, students conducted interviews covering childhood experiences, first employment, travel memories, and life lessons, before producing written biographies based on these discussions.  Each biography was reviewed and approved by its subject, ensuring both accuracy and sensitivity.  The exhibition presented the final works on individual storyboards, complemented by photographs and visual representations of key moments from each participant’s life. 

Martin Serrão, Executive Headteacher at Northampton International Academy, highlighted the impact of the initiative: 

“Working side by side, younger and older generations contributed their unique skills and viewpoints, enriching the experience for all involved. These shared moments not only supported personal development and confidence but also led to the formation of genuine and lasting friendships, strengthening community bonds and demonstrating the powerful impact of intergenerational learning.“ 

The exhibition was attended by family members, friends, TMDF trustees, and supporters, including Deputy Mayor Mike Hallam.  Guests were able to view the storyboards while enjoying refreshments, and were afforded the opportunity to speak with both students and older participants about the project. 

Teresa McCarthy-Dixon, TMDF’s Founder, commented on the significance of the programme: 

“For everyone involved, this experience has been a brilliant reminder that we always have more in common than we realise.  Many older people overcame enormous difficulties throughout their lives, and although things may be very different now, the younger generations equally have a lot of challenges to face today.  It was phenomenal to see them come together and connect over this.” 

The stories collected during the programme will also be included in an online archive, providing a lasting digital record for participants, students, and the wider community.  TMDF’s Intergenerational Stories Programme demonstrates the value of listening, fostering empathy, and creating meaningful connections across generations.  From the first interview to the final storyboard, the initiative has highlighted the lasting bonds that can be formed through the simple act of storytelling.