Access to Gaelic for learners on the increase.
Progress made in relation to an increase in access to Gaelic for learners in the Highlands has been welcomed by members of The Highland Council’s Gaelic Committee.
Members were informed that Gaelic Language in the Primary Schools programme is planned around primary school groups within the associated catchment group of their nearby secondary school. A phased programme of training for Primary school teachers and development of supportive networking opportunities for staff and pupils has led to planning for Gaelic Learners in secondary schools.
During 2009/10, in Lochaber area over 180 pupils had the opportunity to undertake Gaelic Learners in Primary School training at over 10 primary schools within their own school. Evaluation feedback of the training and learning proved the course to be positive and successful.
Pending appointment of a tutor, expansion of the Gaelic Learners in Primary School programme is planned during 2010/11 for the Inverness Royal Academy associated school group where the IRA has an established Gaelic Department. The programme is also planned for the associated school groups of Gairloch and Ullapool High School areas which may include the use of video conferencing.
Councillor Hamish Fraser Chairman Highland Council Gaelic Committee said: “The Highland Council’s Language Gaelic Plan has an ongoing commitment to increase access for pupils to Gaelic for learners. I am delighted to see that we are making progress in the provision of access to Gaelic for learners in some of our associated school groups in Lochaber, Inverness and Wester Ross.”
Highland Council’s Education, Culture and Sport Service has met with representatives from other local authorities to work cooperatively; share resources, skills and developments; and to ensure best value in relation to the training of Gaelic Language in Primary Schools tutors.