The World's Most Unique Classroom: A School of One

Scotland: On a small, isolated island with a population of no more than seventy, Aaron Anderson lives with his family and attends what might be the only school in the world just for him. Why was there a need for a school for just one student? Good question. The answer lies in the island's small size and limited population. Aaron, aged 10, is the only student left, choosing to study on the island instead of leaving for boarding schools.

Aaron and his mom (Photo: The Telegraph)

"I feel sorry that he's alone, but I believe he's happy," says Aaron's mother. "At least he gets massive attention from his teacher." Indeed, and if that weren't enough, the entire annual budget of £75,357 is devoted to Aaron. "Sometimes it's a bit strange being the only student at school. It's boring not having anyone to talk to or play soccer with," Aaron says. "But on the other hand, I can't think of leaving the island. I love it here. I ride my bike, explore the area, or swim in the sea during the summer. There's plenty to do, and it's fun."

The nearest city to the island is Lerwick, the capital of Shetland, which requires over a two-hour ferry ride to reach. "Ten years ago, there were a lot of kids here," Aaron's mom recalls. "Many left with their families to the bigger cities. My other two sons, aged 13 and 16, also left for boarding school in Shetland. The last two students at the school with Aaron left last year, so now he's alone."