Building on the success of Gaelic Education

This seminar will share key findings of a task to ascertain how outcomes can be improved further for young people learning Gaelic. The evidence base for the task used findings of evaluative activity as we inspect pre-school, primary and secondary provision for Gaelic medium and Gaelic (Learners). 

This was augmented with interviews from key participants in the development of Gaelic education. This includes Bòrd na Gàidhlig, representatives from education authorities, universities, teachers and senior management teams of schools, parents and young people learning Gaelic. 

Participants will have an opportunity to share practice, especially as Scotland celebrates 25 years of Gaelic medium education.

The seminar will focus on how improvements can be secured in

• total immersion in the early years and primary;

• immersion in primary and secondary schools;

• young people’s use of Gaelic in contexts outwith the classroom;

• learning Gaelic in English medium primary and secondary schools;

• leadership for Gaelic at all levels; and

• partnerships with parents.

Joan Esson, HM Inspector, Education Scotland

Joan has enjoyed a career in teaching at both secondary and primary levels. During this time, Joan also led on various secondments to develop the curriculum nationally. Prior to her role as HM Inspector, she was a Depute Headteacher in Highland Council.