Rovar, Norway

Took a boat from Haugersund in western Norway to the island of Rovar. It was about 30 minutes, and then arriving on an island of 100 people. Rovar School has seventeen pupils aged 6-16 years. As it happens most are currently boys. The dedicated teachers enjoy the small numbers and can really personalise learning. The older children were engaged on a topic about WWII. Each of these five pupils took their own themes such as Anne Frank, or Norwegians who suffered in the occupation. The School is due to take part in a European Comenius project with up to 14 other schools.
The School had contributed a great deal of research in the island Museum which focuses on a tragedy. 30 islanders were lost when their boat sank on returning to the island from a funeral. This decimated the community for many years. Herring fishing had been a major industry, but tourism is now a significant earner. Local people are justifiably proud of the island and its heritage, but recognise that youngsters often want to spend time in Haugersund. Thank you to Marit and Marit and the rest of the staff for a compelling experience.