Support offered to students training to be Gaelic teachers

Bòrd na Gàidhlig has announced the launch of a scheme offering support for students working towards a career in Gaelic-medium education.  Grants of up to £1000 are available to students currently studying courses which lead to a career in Gaelic teaching.   Qualified teachers wishing to embark upon training to allow them to convert to Gaelic medium education can also apply for some support.

Bòrd na Gàidhlig Chief Executive, John Angus MacKay, said:’Bòrd na Gàidhlig are working closely with Local Authorities throughout Scotland to raise the number of pupils going through Gaelic Medium Education at primary and high school level. There will be a need for more teachers to fulfil those aims and we want to support students in taking the route to Gaelic teaching, and to encourage current teachers who have Gaelic to improve their language skills and put them to use as Gaelic-medium teachers’.

Minister for learning & skills, Dr Alasdair Allan, also added:’The Scottish Government is committed to widening the availability of Gaelic Medium Education in all our schools. To make this happen we need to ensure teachers have the skills, and opportunity to gain the skills, to deliver GME.

“I am delighted that Bòrd na Gàidhlig are offering these bursaries, and hope that aspiring teachers, or those already with experience of the language, take advantage of this scheme.’ 

Applicants have the opportunity to apply for financial support towards course fees, if they are not already receiving support from organisations such as SAAS. Small grants towards the costs of living, books and travel etc. are also available.  Applications must be submitted by Friday 2nd September 2011, further information is available on www.teagasg.com (a website promoting Gaelic teaching), as well as on Bòrd na Gàidhlig’s own website, www.gaidhlig.org.uk.