Celebrating Island Cultures: Orkney’s School Pupils Learn About Visiting Islands Ahead of 2025 Games

School children across Orkney are diving into a world of island culture, language and geography thanks to an educational initiative launched in the countdown to the Orkney 2025 International Island Games.

The Orkney 2025 team has developed a unique education pack for schools, filled with games, quizzes and interactive activities that teach pupils about the 23 visiting islands taking part in the Games this July. From learning how to say “hello” in the islands’ different languages, to recognising flags and exploring geography, the pack is sparking curiosity and excitement about the international event landing on their doorstep.

Children from across Orkney are also learning and recording a special adaption of Peat and Diesel’s song Island, which will be showcased during the spectacular Opening Ceremony in Kirkwall. The island-wide effort is ensuring local young people are not only learning about different cultures, but feel that they are playing a key part in a historic moment for Orkney.

Kirsty Talbot, Director of Orkney 2025, said: “The Games are already having a fantastic and positive influence on young people in Orkney. Through the education pack and other school-led activities, children are discovering more about sport, other island communities, and the incredible sense of international friendship that the Games foster.

“We’ve been so impressed with the enthusiasm and creativity shown by the pupils and their teachers — from learning the Island song to immersing themselves in the languages and traditions of our visitors. It’s brilliant to see so many children playing a role in this once-in-a-lifetime event for Orkney.”

Legacy is at the heart of Orkney 2025, and young people are already benefitting from investments being made across the islands. From international-standard athletics timing equipment to a new athletics track, upgraded venues and improved facilities, the Games are laying the foundations for generations of young sportspeople in Orkney to train, compete, and even qualify for international events without having to leave the islands.

Ola the orca, the official mascot of the Games, was even designed by local school pupil, 12-year-old Sarah Sutcliffe, an S2 student at Kirkwall Grammar School, further cementing the importance of youth participation in Orkney 2025. Since her launch, Ola has visited nurseries and school sporting events across the islands, cheering on young athletes and helping to build excitement ahead of the Games. Her friendly face and lively personality have made her a favourite among children, adding to the growing buzz and community spirit as July approaches.

The Orkney 2025 International Island Games will welcome around 2,000 athletes from 24 island groups to compete across 12 sports from 12–18 July. The Opening Ceremony and all sporting events are free and open for all to attend on a first come first served basis. 

For more information on the Orkney 2025 Island Games, please visit: www.orkney2025.com

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For all media enquiries please contact Muckle Media on orkney2025@muckle-media.co.uk

Orkney 2025 International Island Games is principally funded by Orkney Islands Council and the Scottish Government.

Orkney 2025 International Island Games will bring together athletes from 24 islands groups to compete in 12 Sports: Archery, Athletics, Badminton, Cycling, Football, Golf, Gymnastics, Lawn Bowls, Sailing, Squash, Swimming and Triathlon.