Gaelic teachers from across the Highlands and Islands have been invited to a seminar at Sabhal Mor Ostaig, Isle of Skye on Monday 12 February.

The event has been organised as part of Excellence in Education through Business Links (EEBL) - a Scottish Executive national programme, delivered by Careers Scotland.

All aspects of Gaelic will be highlighted during the seminar, from language to culture, careers and skills, economy and the environment.  The Gaelic teachers will get the opportunity to foster links with representatives from a range of Gaelic related organisations and businesses.

EEBL programmes provide teachers with information on how they can gain experience from participation on work placements.   The knowledge and skills that they learn can be put to practice with the pupils in the classroom and foster career related learning.

Jenny Macrae, co-ordinator of the EEBL programme in the Highlands and Islands said:  "This seminar gives representatives of various organisations, with Gaelic in their remit, a chance to explain to the Gaelic teachers about the use of the language in their workplace.  The workshops will include practical participation such as preparing for a Gaelic news bulletin and translating texts for publications.

"The day will raise awareness of Gaelic career opportunities. The teachers can then take this information back to the classroom, with a clearer idea of what opportunities are available in the world of Gaelic work."

Work placement opportunities are also available for Gaelic teachers throughout the Highlands and Islands, through the EEBL programme.  Next year, there is a possibility of this seminar to include Gaelic primary and secondary teachers across the whole of Scotland. 

The event will reinforce schools curricular links in light of the Curriculum for Excellence recommendations. 
 
The Gaelic teacher placement seminar is part of a wide range of EEBL placements in the Highlands and Islands.  Last year, teachers in the Highlands and Islands took part in placements within the forestry, constructions and arts sectors.

Find out more about EEBL teacher placements