Why speaking Gaelic is the perfect skill to learn
As well as fostering a stronger connection to Scottish culture, this type of intensive language tuition can have real benefits for your brain. In just one week of practice, you may notice sharper concentration, enhanced memory and greater creativity in problem-solving. And if you are going to learn a language, Gaelic is a good place to start – UNESCO has listed it as an endangered language, raising concerns it could disappear.
The story of Gaelic mirrors a global crisis facing thousands of languages, many of which are predicted to vanish within the next hundred years. By learning Gaelic you will not only help preserve this linguistic tradition but also tap into our collective ancestral roots. Once spoken across Scotland, from the largest cities to the smallest islands, Gaelic was gradually replaced as the primary language of government by Scots and then, subsequently, English.
However, there has been a renaissance in recent years, with Bòrd na Gàidhlig established in 2005 to help promote the language, the BBC Alba TV channel launching in 2008 and bilingual road and rail signs now found throughout Scotland. There has been a push to incorporate Gaelic into schools, too, with more than half of the local authorities in Scotland now delivering Gaelic-medium education.
A key player in this Gaelic education has been Sabhal Mòr Ostaig. Founded in 1973 in the old farm steadings at Ostaig, Sabhal Mòr Ostaig's mission is to contribute to the revitalisation of the Gaelic language and culture. It runs a huge number of courses, from postgraduate study to evening classes done over Zoom.
Held from June 30 until July 6, the Summer Short Course will take place from 9.30am until 4.30pm (with an early finish on the Wednesday and a half day on the Friday).
You'll learn how to talk about everyday activities, work and other actions, such as how to ask where someone is from. You can also expect to develop a basic understanding of grammar, practise conversational skills and expand your vocabulary and language techniques. Best of all, you'll be spending the week in the stunning Sleat Peninsula, a spot that boasts ruined castles, the Torabhaig Distillery and countless scenic walks.
Accommodation at the Sabhal Mòr Ostaig can be added to the price of the course, or you can find your own place to stay at one of the many options nearby. Standout choices include the elegant Toravaig House Hotel, boasting enviable views of the Sound of Sleat, or the Scandi-style self-catering cottage Skye Lair, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows to make the most of the surroundings. Gur math a thèid leibh! (All the best!)
The five-day Summer Short Course, held on campus at the Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, costs £305 (or £215 for students)
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