Gaelic Language Plan

Transcription

1 Gaelic Language Plan Prepared under Section 3 of the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005 Approved by Bòrd na Gàidhlig on 17 September 2014

2 Foreword As principal and vice-chancellor of the University of the Highlands and Islands, I am delighted to introduce our second Gaelic Language Plan. This plan reiterates our commitment to the aspirations and objectives included in the National Gaelic Language Plan and the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act As the only university based in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, we are intensely aware of our responsibilities to enhance the status of Gaelic. Our first Gaelic Language Plan, which covered the period , was the first to be produced by a higher education institution, and contained an extensive curriculum development section. I am very proud of our achievements to date, which have seen us increase the visibility and audibility of Gaelic in our services to students, staff and the public, while making opportunities for Gaelic medium and Gaelic language learning more widely available. We are, of course, keen to build on these achievements and this new plan demonstrates the university s continuing commitment to the development and enhancement of Gaelic. Professor Clive Mulholland Principal and Vice-Chancellor University of the Highlands and Islands GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

3 Contents Summary 2 Introduction Setting the context for developing Gaelic Language Plans 4 The University of the Highlands and Islands 5 Gaelic in the university s area of operation 11 Curriculum Academic structure 12 Widening access and participation 13 Curriculum provision 12 Activities 16 Core commitments Implementation of the Scottish Government s strategic objectives 24 Student experience 25 Identity 29 Communications 31 Publications 36 Staffing 41 Policy implications for Gaelic: Implementing the National Gaelic Language Plan Policy implications for Gaelic 46 Overview of the National Gaelic Plan 46 Commitment to the objectives of the National Gaelic Language Plan 47 Implementation and monitoring 49 Contact details 50 Appendix 1: Gaelic and Related Studies Scheme Language Policy 51

4 Summary The University of the Highlands and Islands recognises that Gaelic is an integral part of Scotland s heritage, national identity and cultural life. The university is committed to the objectives set out in the National Gaelic Language Plan and has put in place the necessary structures and initiatives to ensure that Gaelic has a sustainable future in Scotland. The university recognises that the position of Gaelic is extremely fragile and that if Gaelic is to be revitalised as a living language in Scotland, a concerted effort on the part of government, the public and private sectors, community organisations and individual speakers is required to: enhance the status of Gaelic; promote the acquisition and learning of Gaelic; encourage the increased use of Gaelic. This document is the University of the Highlands and Islands Gaelic Language Plan, prepared within the framework of the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act It sets out how we will use Gaelic in the operation of our functions, how we will enable the use of Gaelic in our communications, and how we will promote and develop Gaelic. Our plan also contains a curriculum development section, which reflects the university s central role in the provision of Gaelic education. The University of the Highlands and Islands Gaelic Language Plan has been prepared in accordance with statutory criteria set out in the 2005 Act, and having regard to the National Gaelic Language Plan and the Guidance on the Development of Gaelic Language Plans. 2 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

5 The key components of our Gaelic Language Plan are: Introduction This section provides the background to and context for the preparation of Gaelic Language Plans under the 2005 Act and the structure of the university s main areas of operation. It also provides a summary of the demography of the Gaelic language and Gaelic community activity within the university s area. Curriculum This section describes in detail how we will take forward Gaelic curriculum developments. It will address such issues as degree opportunities, modular provision, online provision and other curriculum areas which can be developed through the medium of Gaelic or bilingually. Core commitments This section sets out how the university will use and enable the use of Gaelic in relation to our main business functions. It covers key areas of operation such as corporate identity, signage, communication with the public and the use of Gaelic on our website. This section sets out the basic minimum level of Gaelic language provision which we are committed to providing in the lifetime of the plan. Policy implications for Gaelic: implementing the National Gaelic Language Plan This section sets out how the university will help implement the National Gaelic Language Plan. It also shows how we intend to promote the use of Gaelic in service planning and delivery, particularly in policy areas. This section also considers how we will take account of Gaelic and our Gaelic Language Plan when drafting new policies and considering new strategies. Implementation and monitoring This section sets out how we will implement our Gaelic Language Plan, and how implementation and outcomes will be monitored. GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

6 Introduction Setting the context for developing Gaelic Language Plans The Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005 and the issuing of a notice: The Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005 was passed by the Scottish Parliament with a view to securing the status of the Gaelic language as an official language of Scotland, commanding equal respect to the English language. Approval of the University of the Highlands and Islands Gaelic Language Plan: The University of the Highlands and Islands Gaelic Language Plan was submitted to Bòrd na Gàidhlig for approval on 21 May One of the key features of the 2005 Act is the provision enabling Bòrd na Gàidhlig to require public authorities to prepare Gaelic Language Plans. This provision was designed to ensure that the public sector in Scotland plays its part in creating a sustainable future for Gaelic by raising its status and profile and creating practical opportunities for its use. Consultation on a draft Gaelic Language Plan: The 2005 Act requires public bodies to bring the preparation of Gaelic Language Plans to the attention of all interested parties. The University of the Highlands and Islands consulted publicly on the draft of its Gaelic Language Plan from 2 February to 16 March A press release was issued, detailing how members of the public could access and comment on the draft plan via our website. Throughout the consultation period, the consultation was regularly promoted in staff newsletters, on the university s website and social media platforms, and by to interested external stakeholders. The consultation was also featured on Aithris na Maidne and BBC An Là. An open meeting was held to allow staff and students across the partnership to share their views. Nine formal responses were received, from both public bodies and individuals. Amendments made to the draft as a result of these representations included the following: Additional reference to the importance of other languages and dialects used in the Highlands and Islands (p.6) Further clarification of the university s Gaelic policy in relation to staff training (Activity 103, p.43) Further explanation of those commitments, described as ongoing, which are now part of the day-to-day operations of the university (p.8) Additional reference to the importance of widening access to Gaelic learning across the partnership (p.13) 4 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

7 The University of the Highlands and Islands The University of the Highlands and Islands is the only university based in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. We provide access to undergraduate and postgraduate study and research opportunities through our distinctive partnership of 13 colleges and research institutions. They are bound together through constitutional, management and academic structures, and coordinated through an executive office. We offered our first degrees in 1998 and, through our constituent institutions, can trace our history back to Each of the 13 institutions has its own character and contributes to our distinctive university. Some are relatively large colleges in urban centres such as Perth, Elgin and Inverness. Others are smaller institutions, including some whose primary focus is on research. All, however, have a student-centred culture and an individual approach to student learning. In addition to the main campuses, the university also provides educational opportunities through a network of more than 50 learning centres located throughout the Highlands and Islands, Moray and Perthshire, or online from home or work. Our students study full and part time, at undergraduate or postgraduate level or for professional qualifications to enhance their careers. They are all part of a diverse study community connected by innovative learning technologies. We currently have over 7000 students. Our research, rooted in the environment, heritage and industries of our region, has worldwide relevance and we punch above our weight in research league tables as a consequence. We continue to develop our research strengths, linked to the natural environment, cultural and social heritage, industries and employment sectors. GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

8 Structure At the core of the university is the corporate body. This comprises the University Court and the staff employed directly by the Court, and is referred to as the executive office. These directly-employed staff include the principal and vice-chancellor and the senior management team, including the deputy principal, vice-principals and university secretary and chief operating officer. Within this structure, the role of associate principal (research and specialist) is particularly relevant to this plan. One aspect of the role is to represent the university s specialist academic partners, including Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI. The associate principal works closely with the principal and associate principal (further education) and chairs a specialist colleges forum. With very few exceptions, teaching and research staff are employed by the constituent institutions, referred to as the academic partners, and not by the executive office. The executive office, based in Inverness but with staff distributed throughout the region, undertakes executive and professional duties and coordinates and supports the university s network functions. These include curriculum and staff development, quality assurance and academic standards, learning and information services, promotion of research, the provision of academic information for statutory and planning purposes, Gaelic development, marketing and public relations, and administrative and financial services. The constitutional structure of the university and, specifically, the independence of the partner institutions, dictates the scope of this plan, which is as follows: The development and delivery of higher education learning opportunities and research through the university partnership, and the provision of access-level Gaelic learning by the academic partners, where this articulates to higher education programmes. The promotion of the use of Gaelic and provision of Gaelic medium materials, information and services by the university s corporate body, but not by the university s academic partners. Lews Castle College UHI and Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI have their own Gaelic Language Plans, and the university s Comataidh Ghàidhlig is responsible for alignment between these and the university s plan. Other academic partners contribute to the profile and development of Gaelic through their own activities and academic provision. The academic partners have been consulted on this plan and are encouraged to consider how they might develop their own provision of Gaelic medium materials, information and services, appropriate to the current and potential profile of Gaelic within their respective communities, including students. We will continue to encourage them to give attention to Gaelic learning and teaching provision and articulation to higher education provision. The university is aware that a diverse culture of languages and dialects exists within its communities. The commitments set out in this plan recognise this linguistic diversity and in no way diminish the importance of other languages and dialects used in the region. 6 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

9 History In the early 1990s Highlands and Islands Development Board (which later became Highlands and Islands Enterprise), The Highland Council and others established the University of the Highlands and Islands Project. The project became a separate corporate entity, UHI Ltd, in 1993 and in 1996 the Millennium Commission awarded it 33.34m in development funding. Along with other funding from Europe, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, the Scottish Office (and later the Scottish Executive), local authorities and the constituent colleges themselves, a total of around 97m was invested between 1996 and 2001 in new buildings, information communications technology, academic and staff development and project management to assist in the establishment of the future University of the Highlands and Islands. In April 2001, the institution was re-named UHI Millennium Institute, and was designated as a higher education institution. Such designation was an essential step on the route to becoming a university and meant that the institution became eligible for annual recurrent grants for its teaching and research. In the years following 2001, further investment was made in the development of UHI Millennium Institute through its physical and organisational infrastructure, academic provision and research capacity. With the support of its sponsor universities; Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Strathclyde, it was granted taught degree-awarding powers in August 2008, recognition that the institution had matured to the stage where it was adjudged able to be responsible for its own quality assurance and enhancement. In February 2011 UHI Millennium Institute became the University of the Highlands and Islands. GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

10 Gaelic at the university The university s first Gaelic Language Plan was approved by Bòrd na Gàidhlig on 24 August 2010 and covered the period Since 2010, the university has made significant advances in terms of the visibility and audibility of Gaelic in its services to students, staff and the public. All Gaelic services and resources demonstrate equal respect for Gaelic and English. Many of the commitments set out in our first plan have become part of the day-to-day work of the university, and are marked with a tick in the ongoing column in the tables below. We are committed to continuing to actively offer Gaelic services and facilities. We first adopted a Gaelic policy in This was revised and updated in 2005 and again in GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

11 Gaelic Language Policy The University of the Highlands and Islands recognises that Gaelic and its associated culture is an integral part of Scotland s heritage, national identity and cultural life. The university is committed to the objectives set out in the National Plan for Gaelic, including the National Gaelic Education Strategy, and to playing an important part in ensuring that Gaelic has a sustainable future as a living language. The University of the Highlands and Islands will be proactive in: 1. Contributing to the visibility and usage of Gaelic through its own materials and activities. 2. Promoting Gaelic culture through the university s curriculum, publications and events. 3. Recruiting staff with appropriate Gaelic language skills, relevant to their roles in the university. 4. Encouraging and supporting all staff, regardless of their role, to acquire and develop Gaelic language skills. The university established a Gaelic committee in 2005, which was re-constituted as the Comataidh Ghàidhlig in April 2010, when representation from external Gaelic organisations ceased. Responsible to academic council, its remit is as follows: 1. To ensure the implementation of the strategic objective that the University of the Highlands and Islands will be a centre of excellence for the development and enhancement of the Gaelic language, culture and heritage 2. To implement, monitor and review the university s Gaelic strategy and Gaelic strategy enabling plan in line with the above commitment 3. To monitor and advise on the Gaelic Language Plan developments of the academic partner colleges and respond to consultations on other Gaelic Language Plans which may impact on the university 4. To liaise closely with the appropriate faculty board, other relevant academic structures and students about Gaelic matters. 5. Promoting opportunities within the university s curriculum for Gaelic learning, including Gaelicmedium learning, Gaelic language learning and Gaelic culture. Gaelic learning opportunities will be available through intensive immersion models as well as being made available throughout the university and beyond. This will include Gaelic language learning embedded within other areas of the university s curriculum. 6. Undertaking research through Gaelic and research into Gaelic language and culture, including the pedagogy of Gaelic-medium education. The implementation of the university s Gaelic Language Policy will be through its Gaelic Language Plan, monitoring of which will be undertaken by the university s Comataidh Ghàidhlig. GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

12 Gaelic skills The university has developed and adopted a set of guidelines on defining roles for which proficiency in Gaelic is essential and those for which it is desirable. Using these guidelines we currently have four roles identified as Gaelic essential and have identified our front of house and admissions functions as requiring Gaelic desirable roles. However, the success with which we have been able to retain our staff has limited our ability to recruit additional Gaelic speakers, particularly to Gaelic desirable roles. To mitigate this situation we have encouraged staff to participate in Gaelic language training, with a view to improving the Gaelic skills of the university s employees over time. A survey of university employees carried out in 2014 collated data on their Gaelic language proficiency. Of the 257 members of staff invited to take part, 143 or 56% replied. Results indicated that almost 47% of the respondents could understand, speak, read or write Gaelic. Further analysis of the survey indicates that, of those responding: 57 members of staff (40.4% of the respondents) have some proficiency in spoken Gaelic, ranging from simple greetings to complex conversations. 53 members of staff (37.1% of the respondents) are able to read Gaelic, ranging from a few words on signs and notices to complex reports and publications. 29 members of staff (20.5% of the respondents) are able to write in Gaelic, ranging from simple greetings and phrases to detailed documents. 67 members of staff (46.9% of the respondents) are able to understand Gaelic, ranging from simple greetings to complex conversations. Gaelic translation memory service The university s Gaelic translation memory service, TòMaS, was first established in 2009 to make translation within the university more efficient and help standardise the Gaelic terminology we use. The service is based on the use of translation memory software, which stores previously translated material and terminology lists. When a new English document is uploaded for translation, the software searches the databases and identifies text which has previously been translated. This pre-translated text can then be incorporated into the new project. Any remaining text, once translated, is in turn saved to the database, and is then available for use in future projects. We are establishing an assessment and quality assurance process to ensure that material is of a consistently high standard. With the anticipated increase in the number of Gaelic Language Plans being produced by public bodies, the potential for a commercial translation memory service was identified. With only a limited number of experienced translators available to carry out translation work, such a service, with important time-saving and consistency benefits, was deemed invaluable. We are therefore committed to working closely with organisations and translators to provide them with access to translation memory software, training and technical support. The service is already engaging with a number of companies who require Gaelic translation. Among our service partners is Stòrlann Nàiseanta na Gàidhlig, which co-ordinates the production and distribution of Gaelic educational resources. Stòrlann carries out numerous large scale translation tasks, both in-house and in conjunction with freelance translators. We also have memoranda of understanding in place with Scottish Natural Heritage, The Forestry Commission, NHS Highland and The Scottish Parliament, broadly indicating their support for the project. The survey also indicated that 24 members of staff are undertaking or have recently undertaken Gaelic language skills training and that 53 members of staff are interested in learning or further developing their proficiency in Gaelic. Of this last group, 50% currently have no Gaelic skills. Progress on addressing the above and future development needs will be monitored through the university s annual performance and development review process. 10 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

13 Gaelic in the university s area of operation At the time of the 2011 census, the population of the university s area of operation (Shetland, Orkney, Moray, Perth and Kinross, Eilean Siar, Argyll and Bute and Highland council areas) was 612,704. People were asked about their Gaelic skills whether they could understand, speak, read or write Gaelic. Of these, 41,789 people or 6.8% of the population of the area described themselves as having some combination of these skills. More than 50 primary schools in the area offer Gaelic medium education, including Bun-sgoil Ghàidhlig Inbhir Nis, the first purpose-built Gaelic school in Scotland. At secondary level, 27 schools offer Gaelic classes or subject teaching through the medium of the language. A large number of Gaelic events take place in the area each year, among them the Royal National Mod, local mods and music and language workshops run by Fèisean nan Gàidheal. Many Gaelic organisations have offices and staff based in the area, including Bòrd na Gàidhlig, An Comunn Gàidhealach, Comann na Gàidhlig and Stòrlann Nàiseanta na Gàidhlig. MG Alba, the BBC and independent companies all contribute to a strong media presence in the region, producing and broadcasting programmes for BBC Alba. 1 Scotland s Census 2011 National Records of Scotland Table QS211SC Gaelic language skills All people aged 3 and over GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

14 Curriculum The University of the Highlands and Islands has a unique and important role to play in supporting the objectives of the National Gaelic Language Plan and particularly those sections relating to education. This section sets out how the university will take forward these objectives in the period up to Academic structure Academic partners The university s 13 academic partners are diverse and each has its own mission and culture. Some cover a broad range of curricula while others specialise. Most staff work across a range of further and higher education provision. Whilst working on the university s programmes, most staff are employed by an academic partner. Academic council and related committees Academic council is the highest academic authority for higher education at the university. It is responsible for overseeing academic development; developing academic policy, including research policy; developing the academic and research community of staff and students; and assurance of academic standards and quality improvement. Academic council is chaired by the principal and membership includes the principals of academic partners, deans, representatives of academic staff and student representatives. Academic council membership also includes representatives from the university s three sponsoring universities; Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Strathclyde. Faculties and subject networks Academic staff are brought together in cognate, discipline-related groupings across academic partners called subject networks, each led by a subject network leader. The role of these eight horizontal networks is similar to that of departments or schools in traditional universities, in that they are concerned with curriculum planning and development, learning, teaching and assessment, and research issues in their own subjects. Each subject network belongs to a faculty led by a dean. Research Being a dispersed partnership, the University of the Highlands and Islands is not department-based, as in a conventional university, but has research activities and strengths based at various geographical locations throughout the network. In some instances work may be concentrated in one centre; in other cases, complementary research activities may be found in the same academic fields at two or more partners. The university has a team of eight Gaelic researchers who contribute to the current Research Excellence Framework. 12 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

15 Widening access and participation Widening access and participation activities are fundamental to the university s mission, particularly in terms of addressing geographical exclusion. We have particular expertise across the network in the support of students across different sectors of tertiary education and we have much demonstrable strength in the articulation between further and higher education, and from higher national to degree provision. The commitments below set out how we will seek to extend access to Gaelic across the partnership and particularly to increase provision for students on courses related to childcare, the arts and media, heritage and tourism. We seek to increase participation in all Gaelic courses through our targeted recruitment activities. Curriculum provision Between 2009 and 2012, student numbers in the higher education Gaelic curriculum were stable. There was, however, noticeable growth in the following two years. The total numbers on Gaelic and Related Studies programmes are set out in the table below: Head Count Full time Part time The overall numbers have been consistent in recent years, though the full-time/part-time balance has shifted in favour of the latter. Numbers improved in the session, when there was a general increase across most programmes. A marked feature of the numbers is the enrolment pattern per academic partner. In there were 182 enrolments at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI and 22 at Lews Castle College UHI, none elsewhere. In the figures are 230 at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI and 21 at Lews Castle College UHI. From 1998 to 2005 Inverness College UHI also recruited and the numbers were more balanced between partners. Gaelic-medium degree provision is managed, delivered and assessed though the Gaelic and Related Studies Scheme. The concept of the scheme, now widely used at the university, was first designed and developed by the Gaelic team. An important feature of the curriculum is the emphasis on the acquisition of fluency, with level 7 designed as a language foundation year. There are three pathways into the curriculum at level 7 depending on differing linguistic abilities on entry. Students can take An Cùrsa Comais, Gàidhlig is Conaltradh, or An Cùrsa Adhartais which is a distance learning equivalent of the first of the courses listed, though it is offered part time. An Cùrsa Adhartais has proven very popular since its introduction, with 70 students in the session. GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

16 At level 8 students follow a scheme core, together with degree specialist modules in Language and Culture, Gaelic and Development, Traditional Music, and Media Studies. Students may exit this level with a DipHE in Gaelic and Related Studies. At levels 9 and 10 students specialise further in one of the four areas noted above while still retaining an element of language development. There are semester exchange opportunities at Irish and Canadian universities in the honours year. To increase accessibility, a significant number of modules (52 in total) have been developed for online/distance delivery. The entire Gaelic curriculum was re-approved in the session and a number of scheme modules and programmes were approved for international delivery. The postgraduate MA Material Culture and Environment was re-approved as the MSc Material Culture and Gàidhealtachd History. This was also approved for international delivery. The contributing academic partners are Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI and Lews Castle College UHI, with the former as responsible partner, that is, the partner which oversees administration and quality processes. In the early days of the scheme, Inverness College UHI was also a contributing partner but withdrew in The numbers enrolled per programme in March 2014 were: Programme Total Heads Full time Part time Lews Castle College UHI Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI CertHE An Cùrsa Adhartais CertHE An Cùrsa Comais CertHE Gaelic and Communication BA (Hons) Gaelic and Development BA (Hons) Gaelic and Media Studies DipHE Gaelic and Related Studies BA (Hons) Gaelic and Traditional Music BA (Hons) Gaelic Language and Culture MA (Hons) Gaelic with Education MSc Material Culture and Gàidhealtachd History PGCert Publishing and Editing PDA Gaelic Media GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

17 There is a growing continuing professional development dimension to the curriculum. Streap is designed to enable teachers, fluent in Gaelic, to teach their specialist subject through the medium of Gaelic. This is also available to Gaelic medium primary teachers. This collaborative programme with the University of Aberdeen is offered online and comprises two modules. Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI delivers an SQA Diploma in Gaelic Media in conjunction with the broadcast and media industry. This two-year programme has a high employment success rate. There are three Gaelic learner modules available to students across the university as options. In Introduction to Gaelic attracted 18 students, all from BA (Hons) Scottish Cultural Studies or BA (Hons) Adventure Tourism Management. Gaelic for Learners 2A and Gaelic for Learners 2B each attracted three students, all from the BA (Hons) Scottish Cultural Studies. In semester 1 of the session, four students enrolled on the Gaelic for Learners 2A course. In semester 2, ten students took Introduction to Gaelic and four took Gaelic for Learners 2B. Lews Castle College UHI offers SQA single skills modules in reading, writing and listening and has developed Higher Gaelic and Gàidhlig (fluent speakers) in opening learning format. The college also runs a wide range of Ùlpan courses in the Western Isles. Conversational and Gaelic activity classes are also to be offered at Lews Castle College UHI s Benbecula campus. Inverness College UHI and Argyll College UHI also offer Ùlpan courses. A comprehensive range of short courses and residential summer schools is offered. The following section sets out how we intend to build on this strong foundation and take forward Gaelic curriculum developments at the university, in line with the development areas identified in the National Gaelic Plan The MA (Hons) Gaelic with Education is a collaborative programme with the University of Aberdeen. Students take years 1 and 2 in the Gaelic and Related Studies Scheme and a combined programme of scheme and University of Aberdeen modules in years 3 and 4, qualifying as Gaelic-medium primary teachers and secondary teachers of Gaelic. Aspiring primary teachers can now complete their training in the Highlands and Islands through the first Professional Graduate Diploma in (primary) Education available in the region. Those who pass the nine-month diploma will have met the General Teaching Council for Scotland s standard for provisional registration and can begin their year as a probationary teacher in a Scottish primary school. The course is delivered at Inverness College UHI, Moray College UHI, Orkney College UHI, Lews Castle College UHI and Shetland College UHI. Students based at Inverness College UHI or Lews Castle College UHI, who are fluent in Gaelic, have the option to complete the diploma through the medium of Gaelic and work in a Gaelic-medium primary school. In further education, provision is managed by individual colleges, though the main providers are Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI and Lews Castle College UHI. They offer a range of accredited provision, short courses, distance and online language provision, largely for learners, but also for fluent speakers. An Cùrsa Inntrigidh (Access to Gaelic) is a supported distance learning course at SCQF levels 4-6, currently with some 170 students. GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

18 Activities No. Activity Ongoing Lead Language planning principle Development area: Post-school education Outcome: An increase in the number of adults acquiring Gaelic from the current total of around 2,000 to 3,000 by 2017 and enhanced language skills among fluent Gaelic speakers 1 We will work with academic partners and the Scottish Funding Council to map the learner journey options and pathways currently available, to identify gaps in provision at further education and into higher education levels, and to act on the basis of this exercise. Comataidh Ghàidhlig Acquisition 2 We will seek to make An Cùrsa Inntrigidh available for study through more academic partners. Comataidh Ghàidhlig Acquisition 3 We will seek to make An Cùrsa Adhartais available for study through more academic partners. Comataidh Ghàidhlig Acquisition 4 Through Lews Castle College UHI we will lead a collaborative initiative to develop a Gaelic immersion course with an SQA Professional Development Diploma in spoken and written Gaelic. Lews Castle College UHI Acquisition and status 16 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

19 No. Activity Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 5 The subject network committee will work with Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI and Lews Castle College UHI to identify the extension of the existing curriculum, and also to review curriculum opportunities for fluent speakers. Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI, Lews Castle College UHI and subject network leader Acquisition 6 The subject network committee and faculty will work with Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI and Lews Castle College UHI to develop joint or with awards. Options include Gaelic/Scottish History, Gaelic/ Scottish Cultural Studies (led by Orkney College UHI and Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI), and a single award in Gaelic Scotland (led by Lews Castle College UHI). Subject network leader with Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI and Lews Castle College UHI Acquisition, usage and status 7 The subject network committee will facilitate a review of opportunities to offer Gaelic in other subject areas and will progress the development of a 10-point Gaelic Awareness module. Subject network leader Acquisition and status 8 A summary of evaluative data will be reported to Comataidh Ghàidhlig in September each year, for review and action where necessary. Gaelic and related studies scheme leader with subject network leader Usage GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

20 No. Activity Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 9 We will carry out a mapping exercise to establish the different routes students take from further to higher education across the network. Curriculum opportunities at further education level designed to encourage progression to higher education Gaelic courses will be developed, subject to mapping outcomes and market research Gaelic and related studies scheme leader with subject network leader Acquisition 10 We will design appropriate bridging courses where gaps are identified to enhance progression opportunities from school to further education and higher education Gaelic courses, and from further education to higher education Gaelic courses. Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI and Lews Castle College UHI Acquisition 11 We will approve a protocol to increase the use of Gaelic in module self-evaluation documents. Academic registrar Acquisition, usage and status 18 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

21 No. Activity Ongoing Lead Language planning principle Development area: Education: schools and teachers Outcome: A year on year increase in the number of pupils engaged in Gaelic learner education in both primary and secondary schools 12 We will widen access and participation by supporting the extension of provision for schools in academic partner areas around the network though the development of short courses for primary and secondary pupils. Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI and Lews Castle College UHI Acquisition 13 We will increase awareness of provision to a wider range of student groups. Comataidh Ghàidhlig Status 14 We will consolidate and enhance the Professional Graduate Diploma in Education programme over the lifespan of the plan, extending the programme to local authority areas not yet involved, such as Argyll and Bute. We will also seek to increase the proportion of student cohorts on the Gaelic pathway, giving regard to the requirement for fluency in the language. Subject network committee Acquisition and corpus GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

22 No. Activity Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 15 We will increase collaboration with the secondary sector in Gaelic medium education and Gaelic language education. We are committed to discussions with Comhairle na Eilean Siar in regard to secondary Gaelic medium teacher education and we will continue to play a full part in the development of a national strategy to develop the number of Gaelic teachers. Gaelic and related studies scheme leader Acquisition 16 Through Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI and in collaboration with Bòrd na Gàidhlig we will develop and deliver short courses/development programmes for teachers. Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI Acquisition, usage and status 17 We will engage with strategy of one plus two, a plan to introduce school pupils to two other languages. Subject network leader Acquisition, usage and status 20 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

23 No. Activity Ongoing Lead Language planning principle Development area: Home and early years Outcome: An increase in the acquisition and use of Gaelic by young people in the home and increased numbers of children entering Gaelic medium early years education 18 We will examine whether modules currently offered by the university can be adapted for use in the early years field in Gaelic. Subject network leader and Gaelic and related studies scheme leader Usage 19 We will work with early years education colleagues and Bòrd na Gàidhlig to explore options for expanding provision in this field. Subject network leader and Gaelic and related studies scheme leader Acquisition Development area: Communities Outcome: More opportunities and networks of Gaelic speakers of all kinds to use Gaelic and increased use of the language in community activities and services 20 We will make available modules as self-standing continuing professional development activity for people involved in community activities. Gaelic and related studies scheme leader and academic partner principals GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

24 No. Activity Ongoing Lead Language planning principle Development area: Workplace Outcome: Expansion of the use of Gaelic in places of work and an increase in employment opportunities where Gaelic skills are required in order to enable service delivery in the language 21 We will expand the range of programmes designed for particular workplace environments. Gaelic and related studies scheme leader and academic partner principals Development area: Arts and media Outcome: Development of Gaelic arts and media as a means of promoting the language, attracting people to it and enhancing their commitment through opportunities to learn, use and develop Gaelic 22 We will work with the growing Creative Industries Subject Network to identify opportunities for Gaelic contributions to emerging programmes in this strategic area and in programmes such as Applied Music. We will encourage links with the National Gaelic Arts Strategy. Relevant subject network leaders Acquisition and status 22 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

25 No. Activity Ongoing Lead Language planning principle Development area: Heritage and tourism Outcome: An increased profile for Gaelic in the heritage and tourism sectors and increased use of Gaelic in the interpretation of Scotland s history and culture 23 We will explore collaborative opportunities with research centres at Perth College UHI and West Highland College UHI and with the business subject network at undergraduate level to increase the profile of Gaelic in heritage and tourism. Relevant subject network leaders Corpus and status 24 We will establish Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI/Lews Castle College UHI representation on relevant programme teams and subject network committees to facilitate the above, particularly the Creative Industries Subject Network. Gaelic and related studies scheme leader and relevant subject network leaders Status and usage Development area: Corpus Outcome: Co-ordination of the initiatives of parties active in Gaelic language corpus development to achieve an enhanced strength, relevance, consistency and visibility of the Gaelic language in Scotland 25 We will seek to increase research degree studentships at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI, Lews Castle College UHI and elsewhere. Dean of research Corpus 26 Subject to the outcome of the research excellence framework and subsequent funding, we will prioritise areas for future research, including the Soillse project. Gaelic and related studies scheme leader and dean of research Corpus 27 We will support community-based research undertaken by Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI, Lews Castle College and others. Gaelic and related studies scheme leader and subject network leader Corpus and status GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

26 Core commitments Implementation of the Scottish Government s strategic objectives The University of the Highlands and Islands is committed to achieving the Scottish Government s strategic objectives. In the following core commitments section we indicate which strategic objectives will be assisted by the actions in our plan. These are indicated by the relevant number from the list below at the end of each section. 1. Wealthier and fairer 2. Smarter 3. Healthier 4. Safer and stronger 5. Greener 24 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

27 Student experience Rationale: Students at the University of the Highlands and Islands have a unique opportunity to learn Gaelic and study through the medium of Gaelic in areas where the language is a real and vibrant part of the local community. Alongside this expanding curriculum provision (detailed above) the university recognises the importance of delivering student services in Gaelic. The University of the Highlands and Islands recognises the importance of increasing the visibility and audibility of Gaelic in its services to students. GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

28 No. Publications and web Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 28 Corporate communications to students are produced bilingually. Dean of students 29 Our student newsletter is available in English and Gaelic. We will actively and regularly promote the Gaelic version of our student newsletter and seek to increase the number of subscribers. Dean of students 30 Some sections of the student diary are bilingual. We will explore the possibility of producing a bilingual student diary. Dean of students 31 A number of top level web pages for students are available in Gaelic. We will increase the number of student web pages available in Gaelic. Dean of students 32 Students may choose to receive course certificates in Gaelic. We will promote the availability of certificates in Gaelic and standardise the process for this and the text used. Head of student records Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 26 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

29 No. Careers and employability Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 33 We produce bilingual promotional materials and advice sheets with information about our careers services. Dean of students 34 We produce a bilingual online graduate case study publication. Dean of students 35 Our student newsletter, which is available in both English and Gaelic, highlights Gaelic career opportunities. Dean of students 36 We will run a Gaelic careers event as part of our careers centre seminar series. Dean of students 37 We will participate in the multi-agency Gaelic employment and skills panel. Dean of students Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

30 No. Representation and support Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 38 The university s student association, UHISA, has a Gaelic policy and we support UHISA in its use of Gaelic. Dean of students 39 An increasing amount of student support materials are produced bilingually. Dean of students 40 The Red Button student feedback facility is available bilingually. Dean of students 41 We will provide a Gaelic webpage and form for our Red Button student feedback facility. Dean of students 42 We will ensure that the representation structures developed as part of the Student Representation Project are sensitive to the needs of our Gaelic-speaking students. Dean of students 43 We will explore the possibility of making the university s enrolment form available in Gaelic. Head of student records Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 28 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

31 Identity Rationale: The presence of Gaelic in the corporate identity and signs of a public authority greatly enhances the visibility of the language, increases its status and makes an important statement about how Gaelic is valued and given recognition. Developing the use of Gaelic through signage can also enrich the vocabulary of Gaelic users, raise public awareness of the language and contribute to its development. The University of the Highlands and Islands recognises the importance of extending the visibility of Gaelic and increasing its status. GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

32 No. Corporate identity Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 44 The university s logo is fully bilingual. Usage, status and corpus 45 The university s corporate stationery, including letterheads, compliment slips and business cards, is fully bilingual. Usage, status and corpus 46 The university s academic partner logos are available in Gaelic-only, bilingual and English-only formats. Many partners have adopted the bilingual format, particularly on signage, and we will continue to support and encourage them to do so. Usage, status and corpus Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 No. Signage (internal and external) Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 47 On first installation or on renewal, we install fully bilingual signage at university-owned or leased premises. Usage, status and corpus 48 All significant signage within high profile areas in university-owned or leased premises is fully bilingual. Usage, status and corpus 49 Some signage at academic partner sites is bilingual. Usage, status and corpus 50 We will ensure that all temporary signage within university-owned or leased premises is fully bilingual. Usage, status and corpus Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 30 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

33 Communications Rationale: The use of Gaelic at the initial point of contact that members of the public have with a public authority increases the visible and audible presence of the language, and contributes to the sense that the use of Gaelic is possible and welcome. In addition to raising the profile of the language, it also creates opportunities for its practical use and encourages members of the public to use Gaelic in subsequent dealings with the public authority. The use of Gaelic in interactions with the authority by mail, and by telephone is important in creating practical opportunities for the use of the language, and in contributing to the sense that its use is possible and welcome. The presence of Gaelic in a wide range of bilingual forms and Gaelic only forms can also greatly enhance the visibility and prestige of the language. The preparation of Gaelic forms, applications and similar documents, can also assist in expanding the range of Gaelic terminology and the awareness of the Gaelicspeaking public of such terminology, thus helping the development of the language itself. The University of the Highlands and Islands recognises the importance of creating opportunities for the practical use of Gaelic in a wide range of everyday situations and is committed to increasing its level of provision in this area. GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

34 No. Reception Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 51 All front of house staff have received Gaelic language training and greet visitors in Gaelic. Visitors who wish to continue to communicate in Gaelic are directed to an appropriate staff member. Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 No. Telephone Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 52 All front of house staff have received Gaelic language training and greet callers in Gaelic. They re-direct those who wish to communicate in Gaelic to an appropriate staff member. 53 Out-of-hours callers to the university s executive office switchboard hear a bilingual message. 54 All executive office employees are encouraged and supported to provide bilingual telephone greetings and personal voic messages. 55 We will actively encourage and assist staff to use a bilingual greeting when answering the telephone. 56 We will actively encourage and assist staff to record a bilingual voic message. Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 32 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

35 No. Mail and Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 57 Mail and s received in Gaelic receive a response in Gaelic. 58 A standard bilingual out-of-office reply is available to all executive office employees. 59 A standard bilingual signature is available to all executive office employees. 60 We will actively encourage and assist staff to use the bilingual out-of-office reply. 61 We will actively encourage and assist staff to use the bilingual signature. Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 No. Forms Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 62 We provide a Gaelic version of our student application form and accept applications for Gaelic language and Gaelic medium courses in Gaelic. 63 Other forms which may be completed in Gaelic are available bilingually on our website and staff intranet, as appropriate. 64 We will carry out a review of additional internal forms which could be provided bilingually. Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

36 No. Internal communications Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 65 Information related to developments at the university and to Gaelic learning and research is communicated to staff and students bilingually. 66 Our staff newsletter News is available in English and Gaelic. 67 Comataidh Ghàidhlig meetings are conducted in Gaelic as standard practice. Simultaneous interpretation is available for those present at these meetings and for those attending by video conference. 68 Comataidh Ghàidhlig papers are provided bilingually as standard practice. Comataidh Ghàidhlig chair 69 We will regularly and actively promote the Gaelic versions of our newsletters and seek to increase the number of subscribers. Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 34 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

37 No. Complaints procedure Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 70 Public and student complaints procedures are available in Gaelic on our website. Corporate governance officer and dean of students 71 Students studying on Gaelic language or Gaelic medium courses may choose to conduct complaints and appeals relating to their course in Gaelic. Dean of students 72 We will ensure that all students can choose to conduct complaints and appeals relating to their course in Gaelic. Dean of students Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 No. Events Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 73 Simultaneous interpretation is available for events. 74 All corporate display materials are bilingual. 75 We run events through the medium of Gaelic. 76 We will run at least one event through the medium of Gaelic per academic year. Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

38 Publications Rationale: The use of Gaelic in a range of printed material can assist Gaelic development in a variety of ways. It helps increase the visibility of the language, it enhances Gaelic s status by being used in high profile publications, and it can help develop new and enhance existing terminology. The use of Gaelic in the media helps demonstrate a public authority s commitment to making important information available through the medium of Gaelic, as well as enhancing the visibility and status of the language. As more people access information about public authorities through their websites, making provision for the use of Gaelic can significantly enhance the status and visibility of the language. The University of the Highlands and Islands is committed to increasing the use of Gaelic in these areas where the subject matter is of most interest to the general public or relates specifically to Gaelic issues. 36 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

39 No. Public relations and media Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 77 Media releases relating to Gaelic matters and to major university events and developments are produced bilingually. 78 A Gaelic spokesperson is provided for Gaelic interviews where possible, and our experts database indicates whether colleagues have Gaelic language skills. 79 We will train a pool of senior staff members to participate in Gaelic media interviews. Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 No. Corporate publications (see for student recruitment materials) Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 80 Corporate publications are produced bilingually. Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

40 No. Alumni communications Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 81 Alumni materials are produced bilingually. Head of development 82 Our alumni newsletter Alumni News is available in English and Gaelic. Head of development 83 We will regularly and actively promote the Gaelic version of the alumni newsletter and seek to increase the number of subscribers. Head of development Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 No. Student recruitment Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 84 Promotional materials for Gaelic medium courses are produced in Gaelic-only or bilingual format. 85 Promotional materials for English medium courses are produced in English with appropriate references to the role of Gaelic at the university. 86 We will increase the amount of recruitment display materials available bilingually. 87 We will increase the visibility of Gaelic in all marketing materials both textually, through student and graduate case studies, and through the use of Gaelic-related imagery and cultural references. Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 38 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

41 No. Website Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 88 High level content on the university s website is provided in Gaelic and English, with a full Gaelic medium interface for the Gaelic version. 89 Priority is given to information on Gaelic learning, Gaelic medium provision and Gaelic-related matters. 90 We have optimised the Gaelic version of our website for Gaelic search strings to ensure that such searches are directed to the Gaelic version of the webpage. 91 We monitor the number of Gaelic page hits and track page progression in order to provide a clear indication as to which English-only pages should be prioritised for translation into Gaelic. 92 We will regularly review the most popular pages and make translation of these a priority. 93 We will identify a team member with specific responsibility for Gaelic within the webteam to monitor the Gaelic content on the website. 94 We will increase the amount of Gaelic content on the website and in social media. Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

42 No. Website (cont.) Ongoing Lead Language planning principle 95 We will identify how we treat translated content when changes are made to web pages and document this process. Relevant strategic objectives assisted: 1, 2 40 GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN

43 Staffing Rationale: In order to deliver services through the medium of Gaelic, it is necessary to develop the requisite job skills and language skills of staff. The provision of language learning for staff helps promote adult Gaelic learning and promotes Gaelic as a useful skill in the workplace. The identification of jobs in which Gaelic is a designated skill will contribute greatly to the status of the language and to identifying it as a positive skill to acquire. The use of Gaelic in advertising also helps recognise that Gaelic should be used in public life and that Gaelic users have an important role to play within a public authority. Whatever the level of Gaelic skills required it is important that authorities ensure that Gaelic is a genuine occupational requirement. Authorities should adopt and apply objective criteria to ensure appointments are made in each case on a fair and consistent basis, and reflect the identified skills needs of the post. The University of the Highlands and Islands recognises the importance of seeing Gaelic as an important job skill and of identifying situations in which its use is essential or desirable. The university also recognises the importance of enabling staff to develop their Gaelic skills if they wish to do so. GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN