Across the sea to the Outer Hebrides …

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The start of June saw the mobile team make the long journey through the Highlands and the Isle of Skye to catch the ferry from Uig to Tarbert on the Isle of Harris. The first part of our adventure saw us visit a very remote primary school (Sgoil na Pairc) in the South Lochs area of the Isle of Lewis, followed by the largest primary school on the island in Stornoway, the island’s main town. Good weather, and arriving a day or two before visits started, meant that we had a great opportunity to explore the Outer Hebrides and discover why so many determined travellers visit the island’s glorious beaches, dramatic countryside and immersive history. Working with 23 pupils on Monday 5th June, provided a complete contrast to working with 263 pupils the following day, and required very different strategies to achieve. We received a warm welcome all round, and were very well looked after by staff at both schools. We were also delighted to be joined with many members of the local community in South Lochs, who joined us for an evening mini-expo.

The islands are much bigger than you might imagine, so it was a good 90 minute drive to get to the South of Harris from Stornoway, and there on, an hour ferry to Berneray to position for our South Uist school visit on Wednesday 6th June. It was another long drive down single track roads for that visit, but we made it in good time, and were able to spend the whole morning with pupils at Sgoil na Daliburgh. The team managed to enjoy an afternoon exploring the island, then it was time to prepare for the return ferry from Lochmaddy (North Uist) to Uig (Isle of Skye) and then home to await our next adventure.