Early Years (0-3)
Parent and Toddler (Pàrant is Pàist)
Pàrant is Pàist groups are open to all children and parents/carers from birth – 5 years. These groups allow your child to play through the medium of Gaelic as soon as your child is born. Parents have the opportunity to learn songs and games which can be repeated at home with their child. Some groups have a Gaelic-speaking leader and some are led by parents.
Pàrant is Pàist groups also provide a vital social occasion for parents and carers. You can meet other parents/carers who have also decided to bring their child up bilingually. There is also an opportunity to become involved in Comann nam Pàrant regional groups.
Cròileagan (Playgroup)
Children can attend a Croileagan when they are 2 years until they are 3. You can leave your child with Gaelic speaking play leaders. Your child will hear only Gaelic during these sessions.
Bòrd na Gàidhlig has 5 early years support officers working through Scotland supporting the 0-3 sector. If you require information about the 0-3 sector or are interested in starting a 0-3 group please contact Bord na Gaidhlig.
Sgoil àraich (Nursery 3-5)
Most Sgoiltean àraich are run by the Local Authorities and are usually attached or linked to a school offering Gaelic-medium provision. When your child is 3 he/she can attend a Gaelic nursery. Your child will follow Curriculum for Excellence guidelines in the nursery. All activities are delivered through the medium of Gaelic. It is important that your child hears lots of Gaelic at the early stages of learning.
Bun-sgoil (Primary School)
In Gàidhlig medium classes learning and teaching is wholly through Gaelic during the immersion phase from P1 to P3. English language is then gradually introduced. An emphasis is placed on listening and talking at all stages to allow learners to practise, use and enrich their Gaelic.
Àrd-sgoil (Secondary School)
Where circumstances permit, Gaelic-medium teaching should extend as far as possible across and beyond the curriculum. Children need to be have lots of opportunities to hear, practice and use Gaelic to become more fluent. In secondary they will have the opportunity to use Gaelic in practical situations, including the world of work. Where possible work experience should be in a Gaelic. Teachers involved in Gaelic-medium teaching will seek out and develop links with the Gaelic business community and Gaelic related organisations.
