Education

Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, Visitor Centre and Nature Reserve offers a wealth of educational opportunities on site and at home. Now more than ever we need you support. If you enjoy our site and our activities then please support us by recommending us to your friends - and if you can - by making a donation.


 We have a range of online activities and educational worksheets avaialable to enjoy during your visit or at home.    Find out more in our Activities section.


Sumburgh Head aims to: Skeld School Visit Skeld School Visit

  • Inspire and engage visitors by providing educational opportunities that explore, increase knowledge and understanding of, and raise awareness of the natural and cultural heritage of Sumburgh Head.
  • To provide a broad range of education activities in workshops, tours and lessons, linked to the Curriculum for Excellence, and include provision for pupils with additional support needs.
  • Promote lifelong learning and an invigorating and authentic experience for everyone, with our stunning views of the Shetland landscape and wildlife.

This service is not restricted to school groups, but can also be utilised by community and history groups and individuals; recent visitors have ranged from car and engine enthusiasts to photography clubs and have included diverse ages from nursery groups to pensioner clubs. Sumburgh Head Lighthouse Visitor Centre is open for education visits throughout the year.

A highlights tour is bookable on request. A Visitor Services Assistant explains the installations on wildlife, the lives of Lighthouse Keepers, the Radar Hut, Engine Room and tours the outside viewing areas. Further tours are now offered to focus on various themes such as World War II, marine life, bird life, archaeology and lighthouse history. These are bookable by school and college groups during term time and will complement syllabus subjects and the National Curriculum.

School visits can also be arranged in conjunction with a visit to nearby Old Scatness Broch and Iron Age Village. Skeld School Lesson Skeld School Lesson

In 2015 we held anniversary talks of our World War II operations, suitable for senior school pupils. These talks and tours are also available also for individual booking.