While completing her training in England, the Highlands had already started to feel like a second home for Briony. Her grandparents had lived in the north for over a decade, and holidays here were a regular part of growing up, often visiting up to six times a year. 

“My mum had moved to the area too, and with so much of my family already here, it began to feel like more than just a holiday spot. I started thinking – why not make the move myself?” 

So, in early 2022, she packed up her car, her dog, and her essentials, and made the 650-mile drive to Caithness. 

“I’d arranged a short-term job to tide me over while I settled in, which was a great way to meet people and get a feel for the area. Then, not long after arriving, I came across a vacancy at the local High School in Thurso for a tech teacher. I wasn’t totally sure what direction I wanted to take at that point, but I thought – why not see where it leads?” 

After introducing herself at the school and getting to know the team, she soon landed an interview – and now, she’s in her third year of teaching design, technology and textiles. 

Beyond the classroom, life in the North Highlands has opened up a whole new world to explore. 

“My grandparents live over on the west coast, so that area was familiar – but Wick and the east were new to me. Now I’ve got a puppy, I’m out discovering coastal walks, hidden beaches, and scenic drives. I’m always spotting new places to try on TikTok or from local tips.” 

Highlights include Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, especially the quiet little beach you’ll find if you’re brave enough to head down the hill, and Nosspitality which is the little coffee shop, with the best oat flat white.  Wick Harbour’s sea coast tours are another firm favourite. 

“Give me the front seat on the boat and I’m in my element – wind in your face, sea spray everywhere. I’m slightly obsessed with the sea!” 

What’s made the biggest difference, though, has been the people. 

“When I first moved here, I’d go into Lidl and people would say hello. I thought, ‘What’s the catch?’ But it’s just how people are. Friendly, open, and always ready for a chat; in the shop, on the street, wherever you go.” 

Now settled in the community, she’s discovered a pace to local life that suits her perfectly, from walks along Wick’s quieter paths to browsing handmade candles at Puffin Croft and picking up treats at the Sunday market. 

“If I could own a donkey, I absolutely would – but for now, I settle for candles and too much cake!” 

Briony loves showing off the region to friends and family visiting from the south, who are always surprised by how far north it is, and even more surprised by how quickly they fall in love with it. 

“It’s a different pace of life here, calmer, quieter, more connected. Things might take a little longer, sure, but people make the time for you. You end up chatting with your plumber and making a new friend.” 

“Like, if you forget to put your bin out, your neighbour checks you’re alright. Someone will offer to help cut your grass. It’s just that little bit of community care that means so much.” 

I’m still discovering hidden gems too – discover the sea for the first time. My old dog was a city dog, so this was a whole new world. Now I’ve got a new puppy, and I get to go through all of that joy again – we always have time to grab an ice cream after too!”  

And as for local treasures? 

“I still haven’t found a groatie buckie yet – but I’ve got one in my purse, just in case.”