For our topic this term, we have been out and about in Fair Isle. One place we really wanted to visit was The Good Shepherd IV . This is the isle’s lifeline ferry that is skippered and crewed by members of the community here. It brings essential goods (such as Luca’s favourite balsamic vinegar) along with other supplies and even transports the lambs to mainland Shetland in the summer. We were given a guided tour by the skipper, Ian and one of his crew Khalid (also a parent to one of our children). As well as learning lots of technical vocabulary such as “bilge, galley and wheelhouse”, we learned about how the radar and navigational systems work on the ship and the way the propeller operates to keep the boat moving through the water. One very important task we did was to learn how to put lifejackets on and discover how they keep us safe at sea. It was fascinating! We even had time to have a Quality Street (other chocolates are available) from the galley – just don’t tell Steven we ate his favourite green triangles.

A massive thank you to Ian and Khalid for giving up their morning to help us learn about something so essential and important to life here in our wonderful isle.