Support Opportunities for those interested in a career in Gaelic Teaching
Bòrd na Gàidhlig is today (24/05/2013) launching its annual funding scheme for Gaelic teaching students.
There are still opportunities for those interested in a career in Gaelic teaching to apply for Gaelic Initial Teacher Education courses (ITE) starting in the summer, with places available on some of the Gaelic ITE courses, including Primary and Secondary Education – Gaelic as a subject and subjects through the medium of Gaelic.
The Gaelic ITE courses are based at the University of Strathclyde, the University of Aberdeen and the University of the Highlands and Islands.
With a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate Gaelic ITE courses available, it is expected that there will be a growth in the numbers of students training to be Gaelic teachers in 2013-2014.
Bòrd na Gàidhlig’s Education Grants scheme is offering support of £1,000, dependent on the course being undertaken and the year of study, as well as support with course fees should a person not qualify for support from the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS).
Bòrd na Gàidhlig also recognises that some applicants will have to give up continuous employment to undertake a Gaelic ITE course and is therefore offering additional top-up support of up to £4,000 to those in that situation.
All applications to this scheme must reach Bòrd na Gàidhlig by Monday 16th September 2013.
Minister for Learning, Science and Scotland’s Languages, Dr Alasdair Allan said: “The Scottish Government recognises the important role that Gaelic teachers have in securing a vibrant future for Gaelic. They are often the first contact with the language for many young people and it is vital that those interested in a career in Gaelic teaching are given the support to enable them to develop their language and teaching skills.”
Bòrd na Gàidhlig’s Head of Education and Learning, Mary MacMillan said: “There is a wide range of ITE course available for those who are interested in becoming Gaelic teachers, including undergraduate and post-graduate courses, full-time and part-time courses as well as distance learning options.
“To fulfil the targets set out in the National Gaelic Language Plan in relation to increasing the number of pupils enrolling in Gaelic-medium Education, Bòrd na Gàidhlig recognises how important it is that there are more Gaelic teachers, and this scheme supports the work being done to encourage more people to undertake Gaelic ITE courses.”