The Hour

Here the sea’s salt spittle glitters amidst the bristling thicket and the wild white winds blow through the streets; Melvich is a most remote and northerly point.

It is then a testament to the accessibility and integration of modern technology that the people of this small community have used the internet to get a very special message out to the people of Scotland.

The Melvich School, which currently caters for 20 students, is looking for a new head teacher.  And in unconventional move the school’s pupils, along with the local parent’s council, have made a YouTube video on behalf of the school, calling for anyone who is hardy enough to brave the elements to get in touch.

The short film which has already notched up an impressive 2000+ views on the video sharing website sees the children spelling out the word ‘help’ in the school grounds, playing football and clambering in gym.

Melvich Primary School currently has two classroom teachers and a covering head teacher, but both the parents and pupils are desperate to fill the position as they have been without a permanent head teacher for the last four years.

The head of the Melvich School parent’s council explained the type of person the community is hoping to recruit.

“We’re looking for a head teacher that will get involved in our community and that will lead our school; someone who will develop it over the next few years.”

The advantages to teaching are easily apparent.  Which an abundance of unspoiled wilderness at their disposal the children often take their classes outdoors, learning lessons first hand in the local rock pools and rivers.

It is clear that whoever takes up the post will need to have a hardy nature and an ability to adapt to life on the edge, literally.  However there amidst the prevailing winds and hewn rocks, the flocks of seabirds and the wide open skies, the right person is sure to find a sense of adventure and fulfilment, of community and belonging that might otherwise be lost in the bustle of the cities.

The number for Highland Council concerned with employment at the Melvich school - 01349 860 970

Watch their Youtube video here