Gaelic Residential for Young People

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Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, in partnership with The Highland Council’s Gaelic Team, and with financial support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig, organised the Gaelic Annual Residential ‘Seachdain nan Deugairean’ event for young people which took place last week at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, the National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture in Sleat, Isle of Skye.  

A total of 32 young people from Portree and Plockton participated in the event which took place over 4 days and involved both Gaelic fluent speakers and Gaelic learner pupils.  

The young people had the opportunity to take part in various work-shops including drama, creative writing, media skills and outdoor educational activities. The activities were planned according to their linguistic ability.  

Archie Maclean, Depute Director of Studies at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig said: “We are delighted to be involved in the delivery of this important event in partnership with the Highland Council and with support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig. It is a wonderful opportunity for the teenagers to participate in activities through the medium of Gaelic and to be able to use the language outwith the classroom in a range of settings. It also adds to their confidence in using the language socially and make them aware of future opportunities available in Gaelic.”    

Councillor Alister Mackinnon, Chair of The Highland Council Gaelic Strategy Implementation Group said: “Seachdain nan Deugairean is an important event for young people as it provides a fantastic opportunity for Gaelic learner pupils to develop and use their linguistic skills out with class room setting.

He continued, “The pupils also have the opportunity to engage in creative and sporting activities and acquiring new skills whilst also acknowledging the wider networks of peers from other schools. The week helps young people learn about themselves, others and society through informal educational activities which combines language usage, enjoyment, challenge and learning.  I am also pleased that Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and The Council continue to work in partnership which has resulted in this successful annual event.”

For further information please contact margaideachd@smo.uhi.ac.uk or gaelic@highland.gov.uk