BCD46101
CnES: GAELIC – A FASTER RATE OF GROWTH -PROGRESS REPORT – OCTOBER 2019
Education, Skills and Children’s Services Department
GAELIC – A FASTER RATE OF GROWTH: 31 OCTOBER 2019 PROGRESS REPORT UPDATE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 The Depute First Minister hosted a ‘Gaelic – A Faster Rate of Growth’ workshop on 9 August 2018 at which key stakeholders identified and agreed to take forward, through more effective partnerships, a range of initiatives to accelerate the growth in Gaelic Medium Education.
1.2 Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has worked with a range of key partners to develop initiatives to address this challenge and to put in place a programme of transformational change that will achieve accelerated growth in GME in the following key areas.
1.3 All of the activities listed below are designed for wider application and most of the work has followed a development sequence of proof of concept, pilot and wider application. Significant partnerships in direct delivery include the three Island Authorities, Highland Council and Argyll and Bute Council. These Councils have provided funding and staffing as part of the eSgoil Senior Management Team and their respective Heads of Service form an eSgoil Advisory Board.
1.4 Key partners in the Charter approach designed to move towards a social partnership for service delivery locally and as the basis for national delivery of support of the development activities include for follow:
Scottish Government Douglas Ansdell Stuart Pescodd Comhairle nan Eilean Siar Bernard Chisholm William Macdonald Angus Maclennan Iain Stewart (DYW) Dolina Smith (DYW) LCC/UHI Iain Macmillan Skills Development Scotland Anthony Standing Seonag Campbell Derek MacKenzie Highlands and Islands Enterprise Rachel MacKenzie Mairi Buchanan Comunn na Gàidhlig Donald MacNeill Marina Murray Bòrd na Gàidhlig Shona Maclennan Allan MacDonald Stòrlann Donald W Morrison Acair Agnes Rennie An Comunn Gàidhealach Allan Campbell MG ALBA Donald Campbell Fèisean nan Gàidheal Art Cormack
1.5 We are confident that there is significant demand for a range of inputs to support a faster rate of Gaelic growth and we are currently working to identify the pace of change that we can both accommodate and support in delivery.
A’ Coileanadh Sàr-Mhaitheas Còmhla Achieving Excellence Together BCD15102 CnES: GAELIC – A FASTER RATE OF GROWTH – PROGRESS REPORT JUNE 2019
1.6 The following tables highlight the key area and associated activities supporting A Faster Rate of Growth for Gaelic.
Key Areas Activities: August 2018 – January 2019 Community and Community Signature data analysis provided key priorities for community Participation social and economic regeneration in the Western Isles consistent with other island and rural areas of Scotland. Development of Community Charter model provides a mechanism for strategic partnership working in the delivery of a community offer and governance. SDS and Gaelic Charter providing a community offer in terms of both Gaelic and Education, Skills and Training has been drafted and is currently in the process of being refined. Co-location/agency fluid staffing providing opportunities for shared appointments are currently being processed. Local Government funding deficits are being addressed through a community empowerment model supported by Community Conversations whereby the key priorities are being addressed through local economic social and educational partnership. Mentimeter surveys with Elected Members, together with data analysis from Community Conversations and Community Signature has resulted in the triangulation of data to agree priorities for intervention where Gaelic is an underpinning factor supporting all developments. Using Whole Estate and Whole Service Planning a wide range of initiatives are being identified to generate social, economic regeneration together with a greater emphasis on community based Gaelic language, education and culture. This approach relies on Service Redesign providing a transition mechanism for achieving a Single Island Partnership. To facilitate this, empower communities and provide a wider distribution of funding and economic activity, a Social Enterprise Model of service delivery is being promoted. The Barra and Vatersay Public Service Resource Complex is an example of how the Public Sector, (Local Authority and NHS) together with the Private Sector are cooperating to develop an appropriate estate, co- location and agency-fluid workforce to delivery more efficiency and rural regeneration. Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and a number of its Partners are working to decentralise a range of services from the main offices in Stornoway to a pattern of Rural Hub and Satellite locations. All of the above, in terms of social and economic regeneration, is based on a working partnership with communities. Rural communities are largely Gaelic speaking and the approach outlined above will support the promotion of a faster rate of acquisition and development of Gaelic as the principle language of communication for education, business and social communication. The operational model of service delivery is being supported by a revised political governance structure. The Dìleab initiative and the wider achievement curriculum has been developed as a mechanism for enhancing the use of Gaelic language, history and culture together with inter-generational learning, curriculum development, production of curriculum materials and employment pathways for young people. The Year of Young People initiative was used to open up opportunities for young speakers of Gaelic to work across Scotland, with each other and to exploit the social media channels for shared activities, eCeilidhs, musical tuition etc. eSgoil activities include the following: Comann Eachdraidh Uibhist a Tuath – introduction to e-Sgoil o 25+ members present at a CEUT award ceremony, e-sgoil invited to attend and explain the service e-Sgoil provides
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Angus Macleod Memorial Lecture, November o Lecture was held in Sgoil na Pàirce with access to other venues to listen and watch via a livestream. o A short pre-recorded message from the mayor of Buzancy in France was shown (the topic of past year’s lecture was the ‘Hero of Buzancy’). o Gaelic poetry and songs formed part of the lecture and wider programme of the evening. Robert Robertson doing Vscene to all Primary and Secondary Schools (2 sessions) o Robert Robertson, singer of ‘Tidelines’, hosted two sessions, one aimed at primary aged pupils, the other at secondary, in which he gave a short summary of his life and career before answering questions from the pupils. o Open to all schools in the Western Isles. Leugh Leam o Reading / book group in cooperation with Comhairle nan Leabhraichean, 3 sessions at 2 different levels (learners & fluents). o 10 people at differing levels attended the first ‘pilot’ meeting Fluent group o Fluent speakers meet up once a month to discuss a book they have read in advance. Learners’ group o Learners meet fortnightly to read a book (currently Glainne by Daibhidh Eyre) together, a chapter at a time (or as far as they get). o There are two learners’ sessions, one at 7pm and one at 11pm to accommodate interest from other time zones, in particular the US and Canada. o To date there have been 8 sessions. o The 11:00pm session has been attended by 3-10 people from throughout Scotland as well as Canada, the US, Australia, Germany, Sweden and Denmark. Farpais Cheist o 4 pub quizzes held fortnightly through June and July. First was very well attended with over 20 people taking part o All questions were asked in Gaelic although non-Gaelic-speakers could participate as long as they teamed up with a Gaelic speaker. o Feedback was very positive.
An Comunn Gàidhealach – Training for judges o An Comunn Gàidhealach approached e-Sgoil about delivering training for their judges and 12 participants from throughout Scotland took part in pre-Mòd training. Gaelic events/ concerts/ ceilidhs in Town Hall and other locations o One of the venues of the Mòd Ionadail with a number of singing and poetry competitions taking place. o Hosted the Family Ceilidhs during HebCelt week, as well as being the venue of the Radio nan Gàidheal live broadcasts from the festival on Thursday and Friday afternoon. o Post-Mòd Cèilidh, November: A concert with various choirs and soloists that competed in this year’s National Mòd was hosted. o Deasbad Nàiseanta: First two rounds of this year’s annual Gaelic Debate for schools. o Tidelines, December: One of Scotland’s most successful traditional bands performed for under 18s. o Anna Mhàrtainn, renowned Gaelic singer from Skye, with the Social Enterprise Academy, delivered a two day leadership course in Gaelic through eSgoil in January 2019. Wider achievement o e-Sgoil is currently planning a cultural session between Calderglen High School and Western Isles schools. Pupils from Calderglen who have been involved in a project about the loss of the MV Iolaire will perform music, song and recitals for their peers in the Western Isles through Vscene.
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o e-Sgoil has established links with a school in Thailand to which we are currently delivering fiddle lessons. This school has requested taster sessions in Gaelic music and song and its pupils will reciprocate by providing Thai music and culture sessions for our pupils. Piping Instruction – online (GM) o Some Nicolson Institute piping pupils receive online piping tuition from Allan Henderson, Uist o Primary Schools throughout Lewis and Harris are receiving online piping tuition from Ashleigh Macdonald. o Tutors use Gaelic as the medium of instruction whenever possible. Planned eSgoil activities 2019 onwards: o Citizenship and Gaelic awareness sessions for refugees (local and national). o To provide greater opportunities for displaced Syrian refugees to develop their Syrian language skills and maintain their identity.
Key Areas Activities: January 2019 – April 2019 Community and SDS Charter Model and formal agreement will be finalised by May 2019. Participation This approach has been adopted by COHI and, if successful, will be rolled out across the area. SDS is funding an Islands Manager appointment on a secondment basis for two years. The Barra place-based Hub proposal is making good progress and it is hoped that a decision to proceed to will be considered over the coming weeks. Good progress is being made in relation to service redesign with a second round of Community Conversations being undertaken. Possible rural Hub and Satellite provision sites have been identified and work is being put in place to establish these. A Community Empowerment Governance model has been developed and will shortly be subject to a Members Seminar and Community Conversation. The Year of Young People initiative has been continued through an emphasis on the UNCRC Rights of the Child including an Area Youth Forum with: o Direct access to the Comhairle Committee decision making forums. o Hosting of a Gaelic Language and Culture event. o Planning of an Area Conference in relation to mental health. o Planning and partnership event focusing on employment and opportunity in Gaelic language, culture, history and community support. eSgoil is continuing its work in Gaelic through the following partnerships and activities. o Northern Alliance Action Plan o National eSgoil funding application o Extended Gaelic learner offer to all Scottish schools where Gaelic is not currently provided. o Oidhche na Gaidhlig open night for community and partner agencies to discuss and prioritise Gaelic developments. o 20 National 5 learner qualification places made available as a pilot. o Gaelic Adult Education classes now taken up by a number of mainland authorities. o Gaelic Development Officer for eSgoil appointed. Dileab 2 performance is scheduled for 29 November 2019. Discussions are taking place with MG Alba/BBC for live streaming, radio broadcast and possible TV commission. The Dileab 1 EP is being recorded and will be available for sale in summer 2019. Live streaming of the Donald Macleod Memorial Piping Memorial competition was undertaken as a pilot for other events. This was watched globally with over 2,000 participating as an on-line audience. The content is now uploaded to the Dileab YouTube Channel.
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Key Areas Activities: April to May 2019 Community and Dìleab an t-Siorraidh Participation in 2019 37 P7 pupils from 11 primaries throughout Lewis and Harris participated pupils were encouraged to continue using Gaelic pupils learnt useful skills about giving presentations which will be useful in the future, e.g. if they participate in the Deasbad; they also got used to speaking to people via a screen (which the pupils seemed to find a lot easier and normal than the judges) Assessments were recorded and the recordings – subject to parental consent – can be used for moderation purposes and to set national standards by organisations involved in Gaelic education. Award ceremony was well attended by a mixture of pupils, parents and dignitaries. Angus Brendan MacNeill had hoped to attend but had to cancel shortly beforehand due to other commitments. The project’s profile is continually increasing. MGALBA sent a representative to the award ceremony this year and Bòrd na Gàidhlig have agreed to fund Dìleab aig Deas, a partner project for Lewis and Harris, in 2020. Western Isles – Shetland primary links awareness raised among pupils of the similarities and differences in the culture, history and heritage of the two island groups pupils (and teachers) getting used to using technology to connect; presenting through a screen, screen sharing, using Vscene etc project was advertised in the media and created a fair amount of interest Creating links with other organisations and people involved in Gaelic (Comhairle nan Leabhraichean, Taigh Dhonnchaidh) Provided Comhairle nan Leabhraichean with the necessary tech (Vscene) that allowed them to set up online reading groups. They started groups for two levels, one as a book group for fluent speakers, another aimed at learners that reads books together with a tutor providing guidance on pronunciation, meaning of words and phrases, and grammatical points. Cooperated with Taigh Dhonnchaidh in organising an informal presentation and concert by Gaelic singer Anna Mhàrtainn. The event was well attended and raised about £150 towards Taigh Dhonnchaidh’s planned extension. Angus Macleod Memorial Lecture dramatically increased the audience for the event, even making it available to an international audience (in 2017 people tuned in from Japan and in 2018 there was an input from France) cooperating with and supporting other organisations such as Comuinn Eachdraidh (in 2017 CE Brù & Bharabhais and CE Nis linked in) and Sabhal Mòr Ostaig opportunity to showcase e-Sgoil technology to a local audience and further raise the profile Mire - Fèill Ghàidhlig greatly raising the profile of Gaelic in the local community through increased visibility in the run-up to and during the festival greatly raising the profile of Gaelic in the local community and among visitors by making it more audible (e.g. participating venues will take a ‘Gaelic first’ approach when welcoming/ serving people) cooperation and networking between a wide range of organisations and individuals directly or indirectly involved in Gaelic highlighting the potential economic benefits of Gaelic as it attracts visitors and encourages locals to participate in activities Comunn nam Pàrant Mòd support sound files of prescribed poems and songs made available on both the schools’ websites 6 weeks of tuition in poetry (pronunciation & delivery) 5 weeks of music tuition GLAD introduced the group to Vscene and they are hoping to use this as the basis for future meetings introduced the idea of using e-Sgoil to consult with and help deliver some of the group’s ambitions to establish a recognised accreditation and CPD scheme for Gaelic tutors; will follow up on this with the group’s chair in the
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coming days Buinteanas cultural exchange between the Scottish and Northern Irish Gàidhealtachdan opportunity for pupils to learn about the similarities and differences in their language, culture, history etc raising the profile of the Gaelic language and making it relevant as a means of communication => pupils feel proud of their heritage pupils will learn new skills, e.g. songs, from professionals pupils will become used to using technology and using it as a means of communication Farpais-cheist fortnightly quiz during June and July 2018 (4 instances) attendance greatly varied, but a number of ‘regulars’ attended and have asked about future quizzes Gaelic community classes it is hoped to start the new programme of classes in late August/ September 2019 the plan is that there will be a homework support class, a beginners’ language class as well as a more advanced class (level tbc), as well as conversation circle(s) e-Sgoil will offer a class in Stornoway as well as via Vscene Working group formed between organisations involved In extracurricular activities and community education in the Western Isles. two meetings held to date, one for group members only, the other open to the general public wide-ranging discussions about the Gaelic offer at all levels in the Western Isles and how it could/ should be improved action plan drawn up GM activities during the summer holiday provide a level of equity for GM pupils as they are not catered for under the current Motiv8 scheme raise awareness of Gaelic among visitors highlight the relevance of Gaelic in an out-of-school setting ease GM pupils back into using Gaelic if they haven’t had the opportunity to do so during the summer holiday if successful, it is hoped that this model can be built on in the future and this become a permanent offerin Nat 5 Learners (adults) piloted in 2018/19 funding applied for to BnG to widen out offer in 2019/20
Key Areas Activities: June – October 2019 Community and LUACH (Fèill Ghàidhlig) Participation Following receipt of funding, a committee was formed consisting of representatives from e-Sgoil, Urras Oighreachd Ghabhsainn, Urras Coimhearsnachd Bhradhagair is Àrnoil, Comunn Eachdraidh Sgìre a’ Bhac and An Lanntair. Further members will be recruited as necessary. A press launch of the festival was held as part of Mòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail and received wide-spread coverage in the media. The committee is currently working on putting together a rough programme before starting on an intensive marketing campaign early in 2020. Cleasachd air a’ Bhlàr a-Muigh e-Sgoil in cooperation with the Outdoor Learning team offered a programme of Gaelic-medium activities aimed primarily at Primary-aged pupils during the summer holiday. While uptake wasn’t as good as hoped, those who attended were very appreciative and it is hoped to offer a similar programme again in future. Angus Macleod Memorial Lecture 2019 This year’s lecture was given by Kenny Matheson on the topic of Lord Leverhulme’s ill-fated plans to transform Lewis and Harris a century ago. The main lecture took place in Sgoil na Pairc, Gravir, with a livestream provided by CnES’ Multimedia Unit. e-Sgoil acted as a satellite venue, meaning that people could watch the lecture from there rather than travelling to Lochs. 6 BCD15102 CnES: GAELIC – A FASTER RATE OF GROWTH – PROGRESS REPORT JUNE 2019
Community Gaelic classes A series of Gaelic community classes was piloted between October and November 2019. The classes were aimed at complete beginners. Uptake wasn’t as good as hoped, but those attending have been very engaged and hope to continue their learning. It is hoped to offer a Level 2 class starting in January 2020. Discussions are currently being held with An Lanntair about the possibility of offering a ‘practical session’ where learners get the opportunity to apply some of what they have learned outside the classroom. Stornoway Town Hall A number of Gaelic-promoting events were hosted in Stornoway Town Hall, e.g. Mòd Ionadail na Cloinne 05-07/06/19, Radio nan Gàidheal live broadcast and Family Ceilidhs as part of HebCelt 17-19/07/19, a Radio 4 recording about psalm singing 20/08/19, Deasbad Nàiseanta nan Àrd- sgoiltean 2019 on 05-06/11/19. Social Enterprise Academy A Gaelic-medium ‘Future Leaders for Creative Communities’ course was offered in September and again November, but had to be postponed as it was impossible to arrange times to suit people travelling from Uist and Barra as well as those living locally. The course will be readvertised in the new year. GLAD membership Involvement in regular GLAD meetings. A new action plan has been agreed and the e-Sgoil/ CnES representative will be leading on “Support Innovative Projects” as well as being involved in the subgroup looking at “Tutor Support”. Dìleab 2 Pupils from Western Isles’ schools are currently engaged in preparation which will see them perform in a live concert with bands such as Skipinnish and Tumbling Souls. Celtic Connections Approximately 80 young people from the Western Isles will be performing in a one-off concert at the Royal Concert Hall, Glasgow, as part of Celtic Connections 2020.
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Key Areas Activities: August 2018 – January 2019 * Digital and The Multi-Media Unit has co-ordinated a wide range of activities in Gaelic Media/Education language, history and thereby culture generating social learning and employment opportunities for young people. eSgoil, the Comhairle’s IT Section and the Multi-Media Unit continue to expand the following wide range of service and resources to accelerate the development of Gaelic language, culture, education and employment opportunities. eSgoil activities include the following: Teaching of Gaelic/ Gàidhlig or GME subjects o teaching to Dunoon, S1 BGE Gàidhlig: 4, S2 BGE Gàidhlig: 5, S3 BGE Gàidhlig: 6, S4 5 Gàidhlig: 3, S5/S6 Àrd Ìre Gàidhlig: 3 o Dornoch x 2 pupils N5 Gàidhlig o Lìonacleit x 3 BGE S1 Gàidhlig o Nairn x 3 S1, 5 S2 Gàidhlig BGE o Perth Academy GME, BGE Eachdraidh, S2 x1 pupil o Oban High: x 6 pupils – S1 – S4 Gaelic o Teaching provision in Gaelic been secured from outwith Scotland by GM qualified teachers (e.g. Malaga to Dunoon). o Currently providing a cohort of fte 6 GME teachers available for teaching to any school anywhere in the world. o Adult learner (parents) classes to West Dunbartonshire authority and East Ayrshire. Beginners and Intermediate classes available weekly. o Extended Learning Resource (ASN) - N4 Gaelic delivered to pupils ASN o ASN support through the mechanism of eSgoil. There is considerable potential to support such pupils to continue with Gaelic studies. Dìleab an t-Siorraidh o A listening and talking competition for P7s throughout Lewis and Harris to encourage them to make use of their Gaelic skills. Each pupil was asked to prepare a presentation of about 5 minutes on a topic of their choice, before conversing with the judges for approximately another 5 minutes. o Over 40 pupils participated from all schools that offer GME. o The competition was recorded, providing examples for moderation exercises. Through e-Sgoil, these opportunities can be widened out to other authorities. Skills Development Scotland o SDS staff used e-Sgoil to deliver sessions focusing on Gaelic- related work opportunities to five schools co-timeously across Highland and the Western Isles Nat 5/ Higher classes in Gaelic & Gàidhlig o uptake from Mexico, Canada as well as Scotland o 9 people in Gaelic class Primary Science Project through GM o A secondary science specialist is developing online materials and piloting them with P7 pupils in Harris. Finalised resources will be made available through e-Storas and the teacher will run the pilot in other areas later this session. “Cabadaich” – Listening & Talking 1+2 Project – Upper primary – 6 schools o X 6 Vscene sessions, pupil lead discussions. Pairings to discuss and agree on themes. Some schools have noted interest in continuing the project for longer than 6 weeks. Latha na Gaidhlig – information shared re GME o Careers fair at The Nicolson Institute during which various Gaelic organisations, including e-Sgoil, hosted sessions to make senior phase pupils aware of what they do and how Gaelic skills can improve pupils’ employability. 8 BCD15102 CnES: GAELIC – A FASTER RATE OF GROWTH – PROGRESS REPORT JUNE 2019
Cuigeal o Interactive virtual Gaelic storytelling session for P3 pupils throughout the Western Isles. o 1 pilot session held to date o 8 schools participated with very positive feedback o a further story, underlined by artwork from the Multimedia Unit, is planned o it is planned to extend this project and have more regular sessions in 2019 Creative Digital Media/Performing Arts/Foundation Apprenticeship/eSgoil vehicle with Mobile Satellite Communication provision at Iochdar School supporting the development of Uist and Barra as a centre of excellence in this area of work complementing the Stornoway base as a centre of excellence in Language (Gaelic + ).
Planned eSgoil developments for 2019/20 onwards: o Enhanced infrastructure and resourcing for partnership authorities to accelerate the take-up of elearning and activities. o Website development for promotion and marketing of online learning. o App development for the extension of Flipped Learning in Maths, Music, Gaelic and Physics. o Provision, in partnership with Feisean na Gaidheal, in the development of online individual and group instrumental tuition. o Development of an online CPD Learning Hub allowing participation by all GME teachers in Scotland. o Extend online provision of in-class specialist ASN support (in Gaelic and English) in addition to online student support outwith normal school hours. o Enhance upper primary experience by using secondary specialists (surplus) to provide input for Science and Gaelic programmes remotely. o Schools are paired and pupils interact, in Gaelic, through VScene to complete a range of listing and talking activities. o Prepare schools for remote delivery by having e-Sgoil ready classrooms and bespoke starter kits which can be issued in response to demand. (e.g. one-to-one, one to small groups, one to full classroom) o Support local authorities, corporate/schools IT support e.g. for firewall enabling etc. o Provide training and support to e-Sgoil teachers and receiving schools on how to best use IT systems.
Key Areas Activities: January 2019 – April 2019 * Digital and It is planned that the output from both Dileab performances will form the Media/Education basis of a production at the 2020 Celtic Connections Festival. Creative Digital Media Foundation Apprenticeship in Gaelic is being delivered from June 2019. Dileab an t-Siorraidh is being extended to Uist and Barra with potential for wider application. The development of Dileab 2 project learning and teaching materials is being commissioned. Live streaming of the National Gaelic Debate will take place from the Chamber of the Scottish Parliament on 6 December 2019
Key Areas Activities: April – May 2019 * Digital and Robert Robertson Vscene Media/Education Hugely popular. 12 primary and 3 secondary schools participated with all 54 pupils in Barra turning out for the occasion. this was a rare occasion of a positive role model and indeed idol engaging with pupils in Gaelic and highlighting the advantages having Gaelic can bring pupils were encouraged to use Gaelic and many chose to do so
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e-Sgoil Open Day raising awareness of the activities e-Sgoil is involved in and the opportunities it provides among the local population and in particular interested parties, e.g. community trusts and organisations, Gaelic groups
Key Areas Activities: June – October 2019 * Digital and Angus Macleod Memorial Lecture 2019 Media/Education This year’s lecture was given by Kenny Matheson on the topic of Lord Leverhulme’s ill-fated plans to transform Lewis and Harris a century ago. The main lecture took place in Sgoil na Pairc, Gravir, with a livestream provided by CnES’ Multimedia Unit. e-Sgoil acted as a satellite venue, meaning that people could watch the lecture from there rather than travelling to Lochs. Online Gaelic classes A series of Gaelic online classes was piloted between October and November 2019. The classes were aimed at complete beginners and ran in parallel with community classes offered at e-Sgoil. Uptake wasn’t as good as hoped, but those attending have been very engaged and hope to continue their learning. One of the learners is from the US (getting up very early to attend class!), another from France and a third (from Glasgow) logged into class while on holiday in Spain, proving just how flexible a platform Vscene is. It is hoped to offer a Level 2 class starting in January 2020. Dìleab an t-Siorraidh Initial planning is undeway for Dìleab an t-Siorraidh 2020. There have been a few adjustments to previous years’ with prize money being increased, a theme prescribed (Coasts and Waters in line with 2020 being the ‘Year of Coasts and Waters’) and the suggestion to hold the assessments earlier than in previous years and possibly in two ‘slots’ rather than one long session. Schools have been made aware and their feedback is currently sought. Latha na Gàidhlig, 20/11/19 e-Sgoil is currently in discussion with two Manx speakers about delivering an input about Manx Gaelic into WI schools as part of Latha na Gàidhlig. This will be aimed particularly at S2 pupils sco will soon be making subject choices. Secondary schools have been made aware of the offer and asked to register their interest. Link between Casltebay/ Sgoil Dhalbroig and St Patrick’s Primary School in Co Armagh, NI e-Sgoil was contacted by a teacher from Crossmaglen as a group of them were visiting Barra and South Uist this summer and hoped to establish more permanent links. There will be a heavy focused oon the shared language and history. While visiting the islands, the Irish contingent got a chance to look at the technology and the set-up in the schools. Since their return to Ireland a test has taken place confirming that the set up at St Patrick’s was suitable and the teacher is currently liaising with Castlebay about a suitable day for the initial link-up. Sports Leadership Award in Gaelic Medium In 2020 CnES will be collaborating with Highland Council to offer young people from across the Western Isles the opportunity to gain a Sports Leadership qualification through the medium of Gaelic. It is hoped that, once they have gained the qualification, some of the young people will be able to get involved in after-school clubs etc. The Active Schools Coordinators have been made aware that this will be taking place in the Easter holidays 2020 and been asked to start thinking about suitable candidates to enrol on the scheme. Deabad Nàiseanta nan Àrd-Sgoiltean 2020 Pupils from WI secondaries once again participated in the annual Gaelic debating competition.
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Key Areas Activities: August 2018 – January 2019 Teaching University of Highland and Islands, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Scottish Government to develop eSgoil delivered teacher training (in development). In-house PGDE sponsored programme. Northern Alliance (Regional Improvement Collaborative) eSgoil pilot programme. A 2020 Curriculum for the Western Isles – curriculum redesign, timetabling and workforce deployment evaluation as a proof of concept for wider application across the Northern Alliance and other partnership authorities. Introduction of a core Gaelic Medium Secondary Education curriculum across the four CnES Secondary Schools as a pilot for wider application across the Northern Alliance Partnership. The delivery being a blend of in- school teacher and remote provision via eSgoil providing a learner pathway for the increasing number of GME pupils entering CnES secondary schools.
Planned eSgoil developments for 2019/20 onwards: o Provide a progressive learner pathway for an increasing number of GME pupils entering secondary schools in both academic and applied learning courses. o To provide added value experiences to Gaidhlig courses and programmes in both GME primary and secondary classes. o To provide engaging story/music sessions to pre-school pupils o To provide specialist Gaelic language input to English Medium primary schools in line with the Scottish Government’s 1+2 language agenda. o Provide opportunities for junior Gaelic Debating between schools o Develop Gaelic Book Clubs o To provide opportunities for teachers to work collaboratively online to moderate pupil work and decide on what constitutes achievement of a level. o To provide opportunities for teachers to work collaboratively online to assess to what extent they are achieving benchmarks. o Allow opportunities for outside agency inputs to such meetings e.g. SQA, HMIE. o Provide regular subject webinars and Network meetings allowing for remote participation.
Key Areas Activities: January 2019 – April 2019 Teaching A 2020 Curriculum for the Western Isles review undertaken to support curriculum redesign and the expansion of Gaelic Medium Education. Increased number of Local Authority sponsored GME teacher training opportunities available. Increased recruitment of Gaelic teachers for eSgoil deployment in the 2019/20 academic session.
Key Areas Activities: April – May 2019 Teaching Dìleab aig Deas 38 pupils from 6 primaries in Uist and Barra are expected to participate in the pilot year (2019); this includes Eolaigearraidh which doesn’t offer GM but who have a P7 pupil who is a fluent Gaelic speaker same outcomes as Dìleab an t-Siorraidh expected having recordings of pupils from all the four major islands may allow for moderation between island schools Gaelic class feedback surveys able to make informed decisions about how to improve e-Sgoil lessons – both structure and content – in future Nat 5 Gaelic Learners course open to pupils throughout Scotland, limited to 15 spaces for the pilot year provided pupils with the opportunity to learn Gaelic even if this isn’t possible as part of their school’s curriculum fully funded, including two residential sessions pupils may sit Higher or Nat 4 Gaelic if this seems more appropriate to their
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ability opportunity to progress onto Higher, then higher education in Gaelic Primary Science Project through GM A secondary science specialist has developed online materials and piloted them with P7 pupils in Harris and Back School Finalised resources will be made available through e-Storas and the teacher will run the pilot in other areas later this session. For the final session in Sir E Scott SDS provided a STEM career input followed by a Q&A session with a London-based neurologist Teaching of Gaelic/ Gàidhlig or GME subjects Dunoon Grammar: S1-S3 Gàidhlig (x16), Nat 5 Gàidhlig (x4), Higher Gàidhlig (x4) Nairn Academy: S1 Gàidhlif (x3), S2 Gàidhlif (x9) Dornoch Academy: Nat 5 Gàidhlig (x1) Sgoil Lìonacleit, S1 Gàidhlig (x3) Tobermory High School: BGE, N5, H, AH Gàidhlig (x20)
GM ELC available in CnES There are currently 13 Early Learning and Childcare providers in the Western Isles operating entirely in Gaelic with a further 6 that offer both Gaelic and English. This compares to 4 that operate exclusively in English. Attachment 1 provides a graphic of the location of the various centres. The following table gives a breakdown of Western Isles’ nursery enrolments over the last five years: Year GM EM Total % in GM June 2014 267 262 529 50 June 2015 268 299 567 47 June 2016 296 299 595 50 June 2017 323 300 623 52 June 2018 341 239 580 59
GME Primary There are 22 Primary schools spread across the Western Isles, out of which 20 offer GME. The two exceptions are Eoligarry Primary School (Barra) and Tolsta Primary School (Lewis). Tolsta will close.…… Attachment 2 provides the school rolls for all Western Isles’ primary schools for 2018-19, breaking them into Gaelic Medium and English Medium. Attachment 3 provides the projected school rolls for 2019-20. Support for GME teachers from Stòrlann, the Media Unit and e-Sgoil? Stòrlann Stòrlann supports GME teachers in many ways. Stòrlann's resources are divided into three, broad programmes of support: 1) resources for high school Gàidhlig and Gaelic learner teaching; 2) resources for high school subjects taught via Gaelic medium; and 3) resources for nursery and primary schools. In addition to educational resources such as Gaelic books, dictionaries, courses, maps, posters and games, there is a wealth of practical online resources for CnES GME teachers to access for lesson planning and teaching purposes. For example: o Stòrlann's Giglets webpage provides adapted, animated versions in Gaelic of classic novels and novellas; o the Lasadh webpage provides resources such as games around language learning themes for GME teachers in primary school; o the Fileanta page provides resources for fluent speakers and teachers at S4 and S5 levels; o a Scholar Programme, run in partnership with Heriot Watt University, provides ten science units for level 3 pupils; o a range of e-books in Gaelic are available for download either in epub or mobi (Kindle) format. Stòrlann also work with schools in the Western Isles to provide support for STEM teaching, and work closely with CnES's Multi Media Unit and e-Sgoil to this end. There is a Gaelic teacher on Stòrlann's panel which discusses
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the preparation of resources for high school Gaelic teaching. The Gaelic 4 Parents website provides a support environment for GME teaching which includes Gaelic games, stories and audio resources at all levels for parents of children in GME, including a Gaelic Homework Help facility available on weekday evenings. In addition to creating hard resources for use in GME teaching, Stòrlann's annual An t-Alltan conference provides an opportunity for Gaelic teachers and Early Years staff throughout Scotland to come together and share best practice and learn about new Gaelic teaching initiatives via talks, information sessions and workshops. In 2018, 15 Gaelic teachers from the Western Isles attended this conference. Further information about Stòrlann’s support of GME teachers can be found in Appendix 4. Multimedia Unit The MMU provide support to teachers and practitioners, from early years to secondary level, in a number of different ways: o provide assistance with redesigning materials which are then made available on e-Stòras o develop new content for e-Stòras o produce posters, certificates and stickers which are sent out to all GME settings o work closely with teachers o assist with delivering workshops and training sessions in the ever- changing creative industries sector o Their Dìleab YouTube channel, which has an ever-increasing bank of videos featuring our pupils, continues to be added to on a regular basis. e-Sgoil CPD sessions and regular network meetings to share best practice in relation to remote teaching pedagogy, moderation, use of IT etc bespoke training sessions in use of technology; on-going IT support and training as required enrichment opportunities which enhance the learning experience by bringing non-teaching expertise into the classroom in real time e.g. STEM ambassadors, SDS etc secondary subject expertise in science delivered to GM P6&7 classes in order to enhance curriculum knowledge and transition pupil-led learning opportunities fostered through paring up of schools to enhance listening and talking opportunities independent moderation of P7 pupil performance in listening and speaking across the Western Isles direct teaching of classes where schools lack capacity a National 5 Gaelic offer to senior phase pupils unable to access existing provision a National 4/5 pilot offer in English & Maths for pupils unable or unwilling to access a mainstream education CPD Gaelic language classes for adult learners e.g. teachers and support staff a National 5/Higher Gaelic course for adult learners e-Sgoil is also currently working on the following: o a database of teachers who wish to teach remotely and on a flexible basis o a suite of policies, protocols and practical guides regarding: e-delivery, recruitment, engagement, pupil support etc o an inter-authority management team matrix which ensures consistency, economies of scale and reduction in bureaucracy BGE level in secondaries and subjects available through the medium of Gaelic? The number of subjects available varies between schools. The figures provided are for 2018/19. They are expected to be the same for 2019/20 unless stated otherwise. The Nicolson Institute x10 o Gàidhlig, Maths, Science, Geography, History, Modern Studies, Home Ec, Tech, RE, Guidance o Availability of Maths will depend on whether a teacher is available.
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Castlebay School x5 o Gàidhlig, History, RE, Guidance, Music o In 2019/20 the availability of History, as well as the frequency of other classes, will depend on the teacher not retiring/ their replacement. Sgoil Lìonacleit x7 o Gàidhlig, Tech, Music, Home Ec, Maths, RE, Social Subjects o Social Subjects won’t be available in 2019/20 as the teacher is retiring. Sir E Scott School x3 o Gàidhlig, History, RE o Hope to have the same offer but History may depend on filling vacant posts.
Key Areas Activities: June – October 2019 Teaching National 5 & Higher Gaelic courses Funding secured from Scottish Government to deliver these courses nationally next session. Initial conversations have taken place with a central belt based Gaelic teacher about inputting into these sessions. This will act as a catalyst of teaching Gaelic remotely in South Lanarkshire. Mentoring for PGDE Eachdraidh e-Sgoil facilitated PGDE mentoring for Eachdraidh student in Sabhal Mòr Ostaig using a Barra-based teacher. Teaching of Gàidhlig/ Gaelic or GM subjects BGE Gàidhlig to Tobermory Higher Gàidhlig to Farr High School N5 Gaelic to Farr High School H/AH Gaelic to Farr High School AS3 Eachdraidh to Portree High School H Gàidhlig to Forres Academy
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Key Areas Activities: August 2018 – January 2019 * Economy and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar workforce planning supported by labour Labour Supply market intelligence has provided the basis for a Skills Investment Plan and Employment Strategy. Education, Skills and Training (Integrated Group from DYW, Opportunities for All, ESF, CnES Training Section, etc) providing a more strategic approach for youth employment and school to post-school positive and sustained destinations. SDS and CnES Foundation Apprenticeship Partnership (Charter) supporting FA, MA, Graduate progression routes to full time employment within the community, all of which is supported with Gaelic language training. Whole Estate Planning, Whole Service Planning and Community Conversations driving opportunities for capital investment, all of which are being linked to community benefit contracts. Islands Bill/Islands Deal being developed to ensure enhanced economic and labour supply linked to opportunities in relation to Gaelic. Decentralisation, service redesign and Gaelic being used as a driver for a more distributed and targeted housing developments with varied ownership reflecting needs of apprentices, single people, first time buyers, self-build and those moving to the area. SDS and Gaelic Charter development proposing a ‘one-stop shop’. Further Charters being developed with SportScotland developing opportunities for employment and, through eSgoil, tuition to other rural areas of Scotland. Planned redevelopment of Stornoway Town Hall as a Conference Centre and Gaelic cultural activity resource supported with accommodation resources. eSgoil contribution in this area includes the following: Social Enterprise Academy course ‘Developing Facilitation Skills’ (Gaelic Medium) o 11 people signed up o Course delivered completely in Gaelic. o Free of charge through Bòrd na Gàidhlig funding of the course and CnES offering the venues for free. Normally there can be a significant cost associated with this kind of course. MA Gaelic Language Classes (3 levels) o Gaelic classes offered to all Modern Apprentices at three different levels: beginners, intermediate and fluent. o 36 attendees o Classes offered throughout the islands via Vscene. o Open to some CnES & e-Sgoil staff Gaelic essential MA posts o There are currently 9 Gaelic-essential Modern Apprentice posts, with a range of roles including Class Room Assistants, Community Learning & Development, heritage, multimedia and outdoor education. o A further two MAs have been appointed on the understanding that they will have made significant progress towards gaining fluency by the end of their apprenticeships. o A further six Gaelic essential MA positions in Childcare and Gaelic Language Assistants have been advertised and are currently being recruited for. MA role to be created tasked with Gaelic Development o To start up and run events through the medium of Gaelic or with a large Gaelic promotion element o Offering community classes
Planned eSgoil activities 2019 onwards: o To provide opportunities for Mandarin and Arabic language learning in support of economic activity. o To pilot remote delivery of ESOL across Authorities and in China and Qatar 15 BCD15102 CnES: GAELIC – A FASTER RATE OF GROWTH – PROGRESS REPORT JUNE 2019
Key Areas Activities: January 2019 – April 2019 * Economy and Expanded apprenticeship offer leading to permanent employment with Labour Supply career progression pathways in relation to Gaelic (Language Assistants, Health/Social Care, Early Years). Increase in the number of Gaelic Language Assistants appointed. Shared appointment of a Gaelic 0-3 years Enrolment Officer to accelerate an increased take up in Gaelic Nursery placements.
Key Areas Activities: April – May 2019 * Economy and Fèill Dhreuchdan, The Nicolson Institute Labour Supply promoted the importance of Gaelic and the opportunities open to Gaelic- speakers among Nicolson’s pupils made pupils (and teachers) aware of how e-Sgoil works and the opportunities open to them as pupils or for future employment gave them an introduction to Vscene, experience of using the technology as well as the opportunity to ask e-Sgoil staff about their experience Gaelic posts One of the MA’s has moved posts (from Events Co-ordinator) to the newly created role of Gaelic Development Officer. A new role has been created (Dòmhnall Weir) tasked with researching the effectiveness of funds spend on Gaelic and provide support with further funding applications. Foundation Apprentices and Modern Apprentices - Gaelic support Foundation Apprentices In 2018/19 CnES offered FAs in three subjects: Creative & Digital Media, Childcare & Early Years and Healthcare. The following numbers are expected to go onto year 2 in 2019/20: 7 x Childcare and Young People (2x Sgoil Lìonacleit, 5x The Nicolson Institute), 3 x Healthcare (Sgoil Lìonacleit) and 2x Creative & Digital Media (The Nicolson Institute). No pupils from Castlebay or Sir E Scott are going onto second year. There was no Gaelic element to the FAs. For 2019/20 the intake has dramatically increased with a total of 53 pupils across three secondary schools signing up for Foundation Apprenticeships. A breakdown of schools and subjects can be found in Appendix 5. One FA, Creative & Digital Media, will be offered in Gaelic medium and 4 pupils have signed up for this. There is also great demand for a Gaelic input to Children & Young People and Healthcare, however, this will depend on funding. Modern Apprentices CnES currently employs a total of 49 Modern Apprentices. As part of their apprenticeship they are offered – and expected to attend – Gaelic classes at 3 different levels (beginners, intermediate, fluent). Attendance at class is monitored and surveys are regularly conducted to gather feedback. 6 MAs have been granted exemption from attending Gaelic classes, e.g. as they already have a relevant degree. 14 of the Modern Apprenticeships were classed as Gaelic essential, meaning that the MAs were expected to be fluent in Gaelic on starting their apprenticeship (11) or gain fluency by the end of it (3). One of the not yet fluent MAs will be given the opportunity to attend a short course at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig during the summer in order to further her fluency levels. Key Areas Activities: June – October 2019 * Economy and MA Gaelic classes Labour Supply Discussions are being held between the CnES Training team, e-Sgoil and LCC about offering bespoke Gaelic classes for MAs working in areas such as Childcare, Early Years, and Care. This is as a result of a large percentage of MA posts falling within these areas and feedback received that previous classes weren’t always relevant to the work environment. It is hoped that these classes can be widened out to people already working in these areas. Creation of Gaelic-related posts, leading to more viable employment opportunities GM teacher employed part-time in Barra was able to add to increase her hours of employment by providing input into PGDE course at SMO A number of people working in the Creative Industries have been given part-
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time employment through involvement in projects such as Dìleab 2. Challenging and encouraging partners to see Gaelic as an economic asset NHS have been asked to develop and distribute materials in Gaelic as well as English. Data analysis and updating of policies CnES’ Gaelic Support Officer has been engaged in extensive data analysis in order to ensure that future strategic decisions are based on solid data. He has also revised a number of policies and worked on gathering and compiling relevant information for reports. Some of the key things he has been working on are: o Drafting a new Gaelic Policy for the Education Department, which places a strong emphasis on the personal responsibilities of Gaelic-speaking staff to use Gaelic whenever possible with pupils, and with other members of staff, whether in formal or informal settings. (The previous policy was drafted in 2010).
o Conducting an analysis of the Gaelic enrolment figures for Islands’ secondary schools since 2016/17, in order to see if there are identifiable trends which point to successes or weaknesses. This process involves working closely with the schools, and it is hoped to streamline the methods of recording Gaelic medium statistics, which is currently inconsistent across schools. The views of pupils are also being actively sought and considered.
o Conducting a Gaelic impact assessment across all departments of the Comhairle in order to assess the extent to which funded Gaelic development is genuinely taking place, and to analyse what indicators are in place in departments to measure success or otherwise. This study will also establish to what degree staff in departments are using, or have, Gaelic skills.
o A Gaelic Specific Grant mid-term report 2019-2020 was prepared for the Scottish Government, which involved a survey of all Gaelic medium activity that was taking place at pre-school level, in primary schools, in secondary schools, in terms of Gaelic culture and history, and in terms of multi-media developments.
o The latest iteration of the Comhairle’s Gaelic Language Plan for 2019- 2022 was published, having received the approval of the Comhairle’s Gaelic Committee, and Bòrd na Gàidhlig’s final approval in June. The production of the new plan entailed a thorough assessment of the outcomes of the plan for 2013-2017, and involved working closely with all Departments of the Comhairle, elected Mombers, and Bòrd na Gàidhlig, in order to produce the most effective plan possible.
o Administration of Bòrd na Gàidhlig’s GLAIF (Gaelic Language Act Implementation Fund) projects, (and dealing with subsequent problems arising from funding, and other issues), has been an ongoing process since applications were submitted in April.
o Updates on Gaelic development activities, in the form of reports, for the Comhairle’s Gaelic committee, are prepared on a regular basis.
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SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION: January 2019
1 Community Signature consultation results 2 Service Redesign Report 3 Community Conversations Feedback 4 Community Charters 5 A 2020 Curriculum for the Western Isles 6 Draft Charter Community Offer 7 Northern Alliance eSgoil Action Plan 8 eSgoil 2019/20 + Development Programme 9 Whole Estate Planning Report 10 PGDE Proposal 11 Foundation Apprenticeship Proposal 12 PEF and Gaelic Language Instructor Analysis 13 eSgoil External Evaluation Report and FAQs 14 Comhairle Staffing Analysis
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION: April 2019
15 SDS Charter Offer (to follow) 16 Barra Place-based Hub proposal (Architect and Space Strategy documents) 17 Community Conversation Responses, Evaluation and Feedback Summary Report 18 Transformational Change Implementation Team Progress Update and Draft Two Year Implementation Action Plan 19 A 2020 Curriculum for the Western Isles 20 eSgoil National Funding Application (to follow).
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION: June 2019
21 Early Learning & Childcare in the Western Isles leaflet 22 Primary School Rolls 2018-19 23 Estimated Primary School Rolls 2019-20 24 Services and Support offered by Stòrlann 25 Foundation Apprenticeships 2019/20
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION: October 2019
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