Learning other languages enables children and young people to make connections with different people and their cultures and to play a fuller part as global citizens. With appropriately focused advice and support, misconceptions about the benefits of learning Gaelic and sustaining employment in a Gaelic environment, can be challenged.
Building the Curriculum 1Learning through the languages area of the curriculum enables children and young people to:
- develop their ability to communicate their thoughts and feelings and respond to those of other people
- develop the high level of skills in listening, talking, reading and writing which are essential for learning, work and life
- use different media effectively for learning and communication
- develop a secure understanding of how language works, and use language well to communicate ideas and information in English and other languages
- exercise their intellectual curiosity by questioning and developing their understanding, and use creative and critical thinking to synthesise ideas and arguments
- enhance their enjoyment and their understanding of their own and other cultures through literature and other forms of language
- develop competence in different languages so that they can understand and communicate including, for some, in work settings.
Involving employers is crucial as this allows children and young people to make contact with real people in real Gaelic jobs and to explore what skills and qualifications are needed.
Making effective decisions about the future comes from learning about yourself and the world around you from an early age. In a Gaelic context it is important that children are aware of the benefits of being a Gaelic speaker and have an awareness of why they should continue learning and using the language. Highlighting the benefits of bilingualism to both GME and Gaelic (Learners) can foster an interest in language learning and open more opportunities in the future.
As places of work become more and more international there is a need for bilinguals in many industries. Research shows that bilinguals find it easier to learn a third language than it is for monolinguals to learn a second language. Being bilingual or having the skills to learn another language can be invaluable when choosing a career. For children who have gone through GME or who are in English medium education but learn Gaelic as an additional language – Gaelic (Learners) – many employment opportunities exist.
It is very important to emphasise that children who may not be fluent Gaelic speakers can develop their language skills and find employment suitable to those skills. There are opportunities to progress with language learning leading to Gaelic fluency and further employment opportunities. Some young people will continue with Gaelic medium education throughout secondary education, others may not continue learning Gaelic and others may be learning Gaelic through Gaelic (learners). There are various routes of learning available for young people who would like to continue learning Gaelic beyond school.Learning and Teaching Scotland, with support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig, have produced 5 short videos on the job opportunities available for Gaelic speakers. These videos give information about the skills and the level of Gaelic language and literacy required to work in the 5 identified areas.
The videos focus on:
- The Arts
- The Media
- Education
- Local Government and development
- Health
Career education involves enthusing children and young people about the world of work, helping them to make connections between learning and work, and equipping them with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their future at every stage of their learning.
Building the Curriculum 4 Skills for learning, skills for life and skills for workProviding individuals with skills helps each individual to fulfill their social and intellectual potential and benefits the wider Scottish economy.
The employees interviewed in the videos tell about their everyday work and the career opportunities available in their field. Information is provided covering a range of Gaelic jobs opportunities.
Find us on