A new Gaelic teaching hub is set to enhance the educational landscape of Scotland, as announced by Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth during her recent visit to Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, the National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture located on the Isle of Skye. This initiative, which includes a significant funding boost of £200,000, aims to establish the Centre for Teaching Excellence, a collaborative effort with the University of Glasgow that will play a pivotal role in promoting Gaelic education across the country.
The announcement comes just days before World Gaelic Week, which begins on February 24, 2025. Ms. Gilruth’s visit included discussions with staff and students at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig about the goals of the new Centre. The funding will be allocated towards upgrading accommodation at the college and providing a new minibus for Comann na Gàidhlig, enhancing participation in Gaelic sports.
During her visit, Ms. Gilruth expressed her admiration for Sabhal Mòr Ostaig’s unique position as the only institution globally that offers higher and further education exclusively through the medium of Gaelic. She stated, “It has been a privilege to meet staff and students at the college to learn about the work here, including the Gaelic hub being developed for the Centre for Teaching Excellence.” Her comments highlight the Scottish Government’s strong commitment to supporting indigenous languages and fostering community collaboration to promote Gaelic language and culture.
Shona Cormack, Head of Teacher Education at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, echoed these sentiments, expressing excitement about collaborating with the University of Glasgow to establish the Centre. She emphasized that recognizing Gaelic education as a core area within this new initiative is crucial for identifying development priorities and providing professional learning opportunities based on current research.
The funding breakdown reveals £109,657 earmarked for capital improvements to student accommodation at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and £91,711 allocated to Comann na Gàidhlig for a minibus and outdoor equipment aimed at facilitating Gaelic sports participation. This investment not only enhances educational facilities but also promotes active engagement in Gaelic culture through sports.
Ms. Gilruth’s itinerary also included a visit to Broadford Primary School, where she engaged with staff and pupils about their bilingual education approach. The school has ambitious plans for a new school and community hub that aims to further integrate Gaelic language learning into its curriculum. The Education Secretary expressed her encouragement regarding these developments, noting the importance of such initiatives in fostering a vibrant Gaelic-speaking community.
The establishment of this teaching hub aligns with broader efforts to revitalize Gaelic language use throughout Scotland. The Scottish Government has committed to enhancing access to Gaelic education through various funding mechanisms, including grants specifically designed for local authorities to support teacher training in Gaelic language skills.
As part of its mission, Sabhal Mòr Ostaig has been instrumental in promoting Gaelic language acquisition since its founding in 1973. It serves as both an educational institution and a cultural center that addresses the socio-economic needs of both local communities and the wider Gaelic-speaking population. The college’s unique offerings have positioned it as a leader in Gaelic education and cultural preservation.
The upcoming World Gaelic Week is expected to further amplify interest in Gaelic culture and language. This year’s theme, “Ceanglaichean gun Chrìch” (Building Connections), reflects a growing appreciation for the language among diverse communities across Scotland and beyond. With over 60 groups participating in events funded through Bòrd na Gàidhlig’s Small Grants Fund, this year’s celebrations promise to be more ambitious than ever.
Events planned during World Gaelic Week include creative workshops, community gatherings, and educational activities aimed at engaging both speakers and learners of all levels. This initiative not only celebrates the linguistic heritage of Scotland but also fosters connections among communities that share an interest in promoting and preserving Gaelic culture.
The establishment of the Centre for Teaching Excellence at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig represents a significant step forward in addressing educational needs within the Gaelic-speaking community. By providing resources and support for teachers, this hub is poised to make a lasting impact on how Gaelic is taught and learned across Scotland.
