Anns na laithean mu dheiridh dhan bhliadhna iomhas againn, bha pandemic Covid 19 air tòiseachadh, a’ toirt buaidh air an obair againn uile agus tha sinn a’ coimhead, le taic bho Bhòrd na Gàidhlig, air dòighean ùr is eadar-dhealaichte airson a bhith a’ brosnachadh Gàidhlig leis an oigridh.

Comunn na Gàidhlig are continuing with their fantastic work among children and young people, outside of school classrooms, in communities all over Scotland.

Comunn na Gàidhlig are in the fortunate position where officers are situated within the communities in which they work, and working closely with schools in each area. This is especially encouraging at a time where there are challenges and difficulties present, especially with careers in Gàidhlig. It is also ensured that appropriate training and development is given to officers throughout the year. The board of directors at Comunn na Gàidhlig provide wealth in knowledge and experience and each individual is valued for their contribution.

The three year contract which Comunn na Gàidhlig have with Bòrd na Gàidhlig gives support and confidence for new plans and projects, and also provides staff with job security. This contract also lessens any concerns regarding finance or the sustainability of Comunn na Gàidhlig.

Comunn nam Parant also benefitted from funding from Bòrd na Gàidhlig, allowing them to be a better, stronger service for more parents all over Scotland. There was also a time where it was thought that it wasn’t possible for Spòrs Gàidhlig to continue, but fortunately they secured funding for a further eighteen months. We will be working closely with schools and communities to increase the usage of their service, and to strengthen the use of Gaelic in outdoor activities.

In conclusion, there are challenges involved in encouraging the use of Gaelic among young people and it is important to recognise the hard work and efforts that Comunn na Gàidhlig are doing. The language needs a strong profile and funding to make positive changes, especially in traditional Gaelic communities.

In the final few weeks of the financial year, Covid 19 had begun, having an effect on our work. We are now working alongside Bòrd na Gàidhlig, to create new and different oppurtunites for young people to use their Gaelic at home and in their communities.

Iain MacAulayCathraiche

Aithisga’ Chathraiche

Tha Comunn na Gàidhlig a’ leantainn orra leis an sàr obair a tha iad a’ dèanamh am measg clann agus òigridh taobh a-muigh na sgoile ann an coimhearsnachdan air feadh Alba.

Tha Comunn na Gàidhlig ann an suidheachadh far a bheil e comasach dhuinn a bhith a’ tabhainn obair do dh’ oifigearan a tha stèidhichte anns na coimhearsnachdan agus ag obair dlùth leis na sgoiltean san sgìre. Tha seo na mhisneachd aig àm far a bheil dùbhlain ann, gu h-àraidh ann an saoghal na Gàidhlig a thaobh dhreuchdan. Thathas cuideachd a’ dèanamh cinnteach gu bheil trèanadh agus leasachadh na phàirt dha bliadhn’-obrach na h-oifigearan. Tha Bòrd-Stìuiridh ChnaG na bhuannachd agus na neart leis an eòlas agus na beachdan eadar-dhealaichte a th’ aig gach ball.

Tha an aonta trì bliadhna a th’ aig CnaG bho Bhòrd na Gaidhlig a’ toirt taic agus misneachd dhuinn, airson planaichean, pròiseactan agus cuideachd sàbhailteachd dhreuchdan dhan luchd-obrach. Tha seo cuideachd a’ lùghdachadh iomagain a thaobh ionmhas agus seasmhachd Chomunn na Gàidhlig.

Tha Comunn nam Parant air cothrom fhaighinn tro mhaoineachadh bho Bhòrd na Gàidhlig, a bhith na sheirbheis nas làidire do bharrachd pàrantan air feadh Alba. Tha Spòrs Gàidhlig, an-deidh a bhith coltach nach robh e comasach cumail a’ dol, air màilead maoineachaidh fhaighinn airson bliadhna gu leth eile agus bidh sinn ag

obair cruaidh le sgoiltean agus buidheanan

coimhearsneachd eile airson an àireamh

de chloinne a bhios ga chleachadh àrdachadh, airson a bhith neartachadh coimeas bruidhinn

sa Ghàidhlig.

Anns a’ cho-dhùnadh, tha dùbhlain an sàs ann

a bhith a’ brosnachadh Gàidhlig am measg òigridh agus tha e cudromach a bhith

mothachail dhan an obair a tha CnaG

a’ dèanamh. Tha Gàidhlig a’ cur feum air inbhe làidir agus

airgead airson

atharrachaidhean dòchasach a dhèanamh, gu h-àraidh ann an coimhearsnachdan traidiseanta na Gàidhlig.

Chaidh Comunn na Gàidhlig (CnaG) a steidheachadh ann an 1984 gus leasachadh na Gàidhlig a cho-òrdanachadh. Ag obair aig ìrean ionadail agus nàiseanta, tha Bòrd-Stiùiridh againn le farsaingeachd de sgilean agus eòlas. Bithidh sinn ag amas air stiùirichean a tharruing bho coimhearsnachdan duthchail agus ‘sa bhaile mhòir; bho tìr mòr chun na h-eileanan agus aig diofar aoisean.

‘S e Iomairt Shòisealta a th’ ann an CnaG le structar laghail mar chompanaidh earranta, is le inbhe charthannais. Tha uallach gnìomh agus coileanadh poileasaidh bho là gu là an urra ris a’ Cheannard, Dòmhnall MacNèill a tha cuideachd na Rùnaire air a’ Chompanaidh.

GEÀRR-IOMRADH

Ann an compàirteachas le Bòrd na Gàidhlig sa phrìomh àite, agus grunnan bhuidhnean eile cuideachd, tha CnaG ag obair gus an òigridh a bhrosnachadh anns a Ghàidhlig. Ge bith an ann tro obair nan Iomairtean Ghàidhlig, am prògram nàiseanta againn, neo tro Spòrs Gàidhlig, tha sinn a’ feuchainn ri cothroman tarraingeach is sòisealta a thoirt dhan chlann airson an cuid Gàidhlig a chleachdadh, agus tlachd fhaighinn às.

‘S ann tro lìonradh nan Iomairtean a tha a mhòr chuid den obair seo a’ leantainn. Stèidhichte air na fhuaireas ann an rannsachadh neo-eisimeil mu bhuaidh agus soirbheachas am modal seo, chaidh an sgioba a leudachadh anns a’ bhliadhna-sa. Chaidh iomairt an Òbain a chur air stèidh nas cìnntiche anns a chùmhnant a th’againn le Bòrd na Gàidhlig; agus chaidh iomairt ùr chur air bhonn ann an Àrd-sgoil Greenfaulds faisg air

Comar nan Allt. Tha modal againn a-nis air dhearbhadh ann an diofar àitean air feadh Alba – bhon bhàile mhòr gu sgìrean sgaipte; àrd-sgoiltean gu bun-sgoiltean; ag obair le deugairean agus clann nas òige. 14 sgìrean uile gu lèir – le làn-chothrom againn sin leudachadh fhathast ma tha an ionmhas ann mu choinneamh. Chì-ear fodha fìor gheàrr-iomradh – dìreach blasad – den obair a tha a’ dol anns gach sgìre.

Chaidh am prògram nàiseanta ainmeachadh gu h-àrd – seo na tachartasan a tha sinn a’ lìbhrigeadh air taobh a-muigh lìonradh nan iomairtean gu h-àraid farpais ball-coise Cuach na Cloinne, campaichean sàmhraidh Sradagan, agus an taic a tha sinn a’ toirt seachad dha Deasbad Nàiseanta na Sgoiltean.

Tha sinn cuideachd a’ cumail taic ri buidhnean Sradagan aig ìre ionadail air feadh Alba, agus a’ toirt taic chorporra ri buidheann Chomann nam Pàrant. Chaidh an obair acasan leudachadh am bliadhna is an dàrna oifigear fhasdadh le taic bho Bhòrd na Gàidhlig. Leis mar a tha foghlam tro mheadhan na Gàidhlig a’ dol am meud air feadh Alba bha e cudromach comas a bharrachd a thoirt dhan sgioba seo gus taic ceart a chumail ri pàrantan.

Bha am pròiseact ùr-gnathach againn airson spòrs air a bhlàr a-muigh a’ leantainn – Spòrs Gàidhlig. Thogar air soirbheachas a chiad bliadhna airson cùisean thoirt air adhart – a’ treànadh dhaoine ùra agus a’ leudachadh na cothroman is comasan airson seiseannan spòrsail is dùbhlannach a thoirt seachad.

Ro-radha

Aig an àm-sa an uiridh bha mi a-mach air na dùbhlain a th’air a bhith an luib lìnn an ‘austerity’, agus am buaidh a th’air a bhith aige sin air sporan-leasachaidh na Gàidhlig. Aig deireadh na bliadhna-sa, rinn CnaG co-òrdanachadh air litir gu Ministear na Gàidhlig, Mghr Iain Swinney, às leth grunnan bhuidhnean Ghàidhlig eile, a’ toirt dha aire cho cudromach ‘s a tha e gum bith ionmhas freagarrach ann mu choinneamh leasachadh na Gàidhlig san fharsuingeachd.

Ged tha – agus a’ cur uallach ùr, uamhasach oirnne agus an saoghal air fad – goirid bheag às deidh sin dè nochd air fàire ach an ‘coròna-bhìoras’ – Covid-19. ‘S ann aig fìor deireadh na bliadhna a nochd seo, is thàinig oirnn ìnnse dhan mhòr chuid dhan sgioba a bhith ag obair bhon taigh. Tillidh mi gu ceist Covid-19 a-rithist.

A’ coimhead ris an còrr den bhliadhna, feumar radha gun robh bliadhna gu math soirbheachail aig CnaG, ged nach robh i gin dùbhlan cuideachd.

Air stèidh a chùmhnant ùr againn le Bòrd na Gàidhlig thòisich sinn air fasdadh mu choinneamh trì dreuchdan ùr. Chaidh Iomairt an Òbain a chur air stèidh nas cìnntiche, an luib cùmhnant a Bhùird, agus le taic bho Chomhairle EarraGhàidheal is Bòid; bha againn ri oifigear ùr fhaighinn leis gun robh am fear a bh’ann air obair ùr eile againn ghlèidheadh, mar an dàrna oifigear aig sgioba Chomann nam Pàrant; mu dheireadh chaidh Iomairt tur ùr stèidheachadh, cuide ri Comhairle Lannraig a Tuath, gus oifigear pàirt ùine stèidheachadh ann an Ard-Sgoil Greenfaulds.

Rinn sinn obair cuideachd gus coimhead ri na dòighean san gabhadh lìonradh agus obair nan iomairtean leudachadh san àm ri teachd. Tha ‘Plana Leasachaidh nan Iomairtean’ air sgrìobhadh agus thèid sgaoileadh is fhoillseachadh air an ath-bhliadhan, faic dè an ùidh is na cothroman a bhitheadh ann (a’ fàgail ceist Covid-19 ri aon taobh).

Aig an ìre-sa, tha sinn ann an compàirteachas làidir, foirmeil le 5 Ùghdarrasan Ionadail ann an Alba airson cuid de na dreuchdan Iomairt stèidheachadh. ‘S iad seo: Comhairle nan Eilean; Comhairle Earraghàidheal is Bòid; Comhairle Bhaile Ghlaschu; Comhairle Dhùn Èidinn; agus Comhairle Lànnraig a Tuath. Bhitheadh sinn an dòchas gun lean an suidheachadh seo anns na bliadhnachan ri teachd, air stèidh is air fianas cho soirbheachail is a tha na h-iomairtean seo. Cuideachd, a thuilleadh air na ceangalan foirmeil seo, feumar ainmeachadh na ceangalan is an co-obrachadh neo-fhoirmeil a tha a’ leantainn a h-uile là. Às aonais an

taic ud bho luchd-teagaisg, sgoiltean, pàrantan is buidhnean eile, cha bhitheadh an obair againn faisg cho furasta neo cho soirbheachail.

An uiridh, bha sinn gu dlùth an sàs anns am pròiseact ùr Spòrs Gàidhlig, agus chan eil teagamh nach robh seo na fòcas làidir againn fhathast ann an 2019/20. Am bliadhna fhauir sinn taic dhan phròiseact bho Iomairt na Gàidhealtachd is nan Eilean, Riaghaltas na h-Alba, Bòrd na Gàidhlig agus maoin ChnaG fhèin. Mar a bha san amharc, chaidh againn air dithis ùr fhastadh mar luchd-treànaidh, agus gu sònraichte am bliadhna thòisich sinn air leudachadh gu mòr air na bha sinn a’ tabhann dha na sgoiltean. Tha an compàirteachas le Loidse a Ghlinne Mhòir air leth-chudromach dhuinn san t-seadh seo.

Feumar a radha gum bheil e air a bhith nas duilighe na bha dùil againn teachd a-steach gu leòr a thogail bho obair reic le na sgoiltean is buidhnean eile. Anns an t-Sultain, nuair a thàinig an taic-airgid a bh’againn mu choinneamh am pròiseact gu crìoch, cha robh cùisean aig ìre far am b’urrainn do ChnaG obraichean Spòrs Gàidhlig a chumail a’ dol leis fhèin. Ged a bha sinn misneachail ann am prionnsabal na h-obrach, gu practaigeach dh’fheumadh struth-airgid a bhith againn mu choinneamh na dreuchdan is na cosgaisean seo.

Le sin bha sinn gu math toilichte is taingeil gun do dh’aontaich Bòrd na Gàidhlig ri taic-airgid às ùr: £45,000 airson an ùine eadar Samhain 2019 agus Màirt 2021. Cha chùm sin am pròiseact a’ dol leis fhèin, agus bha dùil againn obair reic a dhèanamh na chois. Tillidh mi chun chuspair-sa fodha.

Tha obair chudromach Chomann nam Pàrant air leantainn fhathast, agus tha CnaG air leth toilichte taic chorporra chumail ris a seo. Am bliadhna, le taic Bhòrd na Gàidhlig, chaidh againn air an dàrna oifigear a chur ris an sgioba seo – rud a tha air leth iomchaidh ma bheirear sùil air an leudachadh ann FTMG air feadh Alba, is cho cudromach ‘s a tha e taic a chumail ri pàrantan le clann anns na sgoiltean, agus misneachd a thoirt dhaibhsan a tha a’ beachdachadh às ùr air FTMG airson an cuid cloinne.

A’ tionndadh a-rithist ma tha gu ceist coròna-bhìoras agus Covid-19. Nuair a dh’èirich seo aig fìor deireadh na bliadhna-ionmhais, thug e buaidh air obair ChnaG. Le na sgoiltean a’ dùnadh bho mheadhan a’ Mhàirt, agus casg air daoine bhith a’ siubhal, bha aig an sgioba Iomairt agus an còrr de luchd-obrach ChnaG a bhith ag obair bhon dachaigh.

Tha an sgioba iomairt ri’m moladh airson mar a thionndaidh iad gu tachartasan is seiseanan ‘air loighne’ dhan an òigridh – a’ cumail taic ri na tha a’ dol anns na sgoiltean.

Tha sinn gu math taingeil a-rithist airson an taic a tha sinn a’ faighinn bho Bhòrd na Gàidhlig aig an àm a tha seo, agus cho sùbailte ‘s a tha iad air a bhith mu choinneamhan maoineachadh agus gnìomh.

Ged tha, tha seo na dhùbhlain a bharrachd do Spòrs Gàidhlig. Tha sinn a’ dèanamh dheth gun do chaill sinn luach mu £53,000 ann an obair reic, le tachartasan air an cur dheth anns a chiad phàirt de 2020/21. Chaidh againn air an sgioba seo a chur air fòrladh bho sgeama an Riaghaltais, agus sin an suidheachadh a th’againn aig deireadh na bliadhna-sa. Chan eil teagamh sam bith gum bheil 2020/21 gu bhith na dhùbhlan do dh’obair na Gàidhlig – ach chan eil an sin ach am pàirt a bu lugha den bhuaidh a bhios aig a’ ghalair seo.

Dìreach anns an dealachadh feumaidh mi taic a thoirt dha buill Bòrd Stiùiridh ChnaG a bhios a’ cumail taic dhan sgioba tron bhliadhna; às an aonais, agus às aonais a h-uile duine eile a bhios a’ cumail taic dhuinn, cha bhitheadh an obair neo a’ bhuidheann cho soirbheachail.

Cùmhnant-leasachaidh Bhòrd na Gàidhlig

Tha a’ chùmhnant seo, agus an taic-airgid a tha a’ tighinn na chois ro-chudromach do ChnaG. Às aonais cha b’urrainn dhuinn ar n’obair a chumail a’ dol anns na sgoiltean, anns a’ choimhearsnachd agus am measg an òigridh.

Obair òigridh

Bithidh a h-uile oifigear ionadail againn an sàs ann am prògram-obrach anns na sgìrean aca fhèin – is sin air a stèidheachadh a rèir na goireasan a tha rim faighinn; miann nam pàrantan; agus a thuilleadh air siud, miann an òigridh fhèin. Bheirear sùil air beagan den seo anns na duilleagan sònraichte a leanas. Cuide ri siud, tha prògram stèidhichte againn de thachartasan òigridh a bhios a’ tàladh dhaoine òga bho air feadh Alba:

Leirmheas na Bliadhna

• Cuach na Cloinne a’ soirbheachadh chun an ìre às àirde a-riamh, le 75 sgioba an sàs uile gu leìr, bho 36 sgoiltean. ‘S iad Bun Sgoil an Iochdair a bhuannaich am bliadhna.

• Dà champa Sradagan gan cumail le 45 an sàs eatorra, chaidh an dà champ a chumail ann an ionad Sgaladail anns na Hearadh leis cho goireasach ‘s a tha e.

• Taic ri buidhnean Sradagan le dìon chloinne, stiùireadh ‘s ionmhas. Tha 30 buidheann Sradagan ann an Alba aig an ìre tha seo;

• Le Spòrs Gàidhlig – Turas nan Eilean ga ruith a-rithist – buidhean de 12 òigridh a’ dèanamh an t-slighe eadar Barraigh agus Nis air rothairean

Dòmhnall MacNèillCeannard

BÒRD STIÙIRIDH CHNAG 2019/20Mgr Iain MacAmhlaigh (Cathraiche)Comhrl. Fionnlagh Coineagana’ Bh-Uas Catriona Mhoireach a’ Bh-Uas Laura Nic’Illineinn a’ Bh-Uas. Cairistiona NicGhille’IosaMgr Ailean Dòmhnallach Mgr Domhnall K Mac a’PhìMgr Coinneach MacChoinnicha’ Bh-Uas Ceitidh NicAonghais

LUCHD-OBRACH CHNAG 2019/20

Inbhir NisDòmhnall MacNeìll, Ceannard & Rùnaire a’ ChompanaidhShona Chaimbeul, Oifigear Leasachaidh & Iomairt Inbhir Nis

SteòrnabhaghMarina Mhoireach, Stiùiriche LeasachaidhMàiri T NicDhòmhnaill, Oifigear taic-leasachaidh

Iomairt Ghàidhlig GhlaschuAlasdair Foirbeis

Iomairt Ghàidhlig LeòdhaisCeitidh Ghreumach

Iomairt Ghàidhlig Ìle ‘s DhiùraLynn NicDhòmhnaill

Iomairt Ghàidhlig Loch Abair & I. Gh. MhuileKatrina Nic’Illeathainn

Iomairt Ghàidhlig Uibhist a Deas ‘s Eirisgeigh Màiri-Anna Chaimbeul

Lasair - Iomairt Ghàidhlig Ìochdar ThròndairnisSìne Ghilleasbuig

Iomairt Ghàidhlig Dhùn ÈidinnAnn NicLosgaidh (gu Dùbhlachd 2019)Màiri NicPhàil (bhon Ghearran 2020)

Iomairt Ghàidhlig a’ Bhàgh a TuathLisa Reid

Iomairt Ghàidhlig BharraighAonghas Nic’Illeathain

Iomairt Sgoil ‘IcNeacaillMàiri Nic’Illinnein

Iomairt Ghàidhlig na HearadhJenna Mhoireasdain

Iomairt Ghàidhlig an Òbain,Innes MacCuinn (gu Iuchar 2019)Lauren Byrne (bho Lùnasdal 2019)

Iomairt Ghàidhlig ÀS GreenfauldsCarina NicLeòid (bho Sultainn 2019)

Comann nam PàrantMagaidh Wentworth, Geàrrloch, ManaidsearInnes MacCuinn, Oifigear Leasachaidh (bho Iuchar 2019)

Spòrs Gàidhlig Dòmhnall Morris, Co-òrdanaicheCoinneach MacFhraing, neach-iùilIseabail Nic’Illeathainn, neach-iùil/trèanadh (gu Sultain 2019)

ENGLISH SUMMARY

At this time last year I highlighted the challenges posed by the ‘austerity budgets’ to Gaelic development. At the end of this financial year CnaG co-ordinated a letter to Minister for Gaelic John Swinney, stressing the importance of suitable investment in the language’s future.

However – and a concern for CnaG along with the rest of the world – only a short time after this, the coronavirus crisis loomed large. I’ll return to this issue later.

Beyond this, CnaG had another successful year, though not without its challenges.

On the basis of our new contract with Bòrd na Gàidhlig we recruited staff to three new positions. The Oban Iomairt was put on a firmer footing as part of this contract and in partnership with Argyll and Bute Council; we had to recruit a new officer as the existing one moved to a new post as the second Comann nam Pàrant officer; and a completely new Iomairt was established at Greenfaulds High School in partnership with North Lanarkshire Council.

We considered how our network of Iomairtean could be developed and expanded, with a formal ‘Development Plan’ being prepared. This will be circulated in the next year and will be a basis for discussions on future opportunities – leaving Covid-19 to one side.

At this stage we are in formal partnerships with 5 Local Authorities: Comhairle nan Eilean Siar; Argyll and Bute Council; Glasgow City Council; Edinburgh City Council; and North Lanarkshire Council. We also acknowledge the other vital support we get towards our work from a range of other less formal partnerships and co-operation with schools, parents, teachers and other organisations. Without these our work would be more difficult, and less successful.Last year we were working hard to develop our Spòrs Gàidhlig project – and this has been an ongoing focus in 2019/20. This year we received support for the project from Highlands and Islands Enterprise, The Scottish Government, Bòrd na Gàidhlig, and CnaG’s own investment. We saw two new trainees recruited and a significant expansion in the delivery of activity sessions. Special mention must be made of the practical support received through our partnership with the Glenmore Lodge National Outdoor Centre.

However it has been harder than expected to generate the income we had predicted. In September, with the initial financial support at an end, we were in a position where CnaG could not sustain the work on its own. While we were as convinced as ever of the importance of the work, practically we needed another income stream.

To that end we were extremely grateful for the new support awarded by Bòrd na Gàidhlig; £45,000 for the period November 2019 to March 2021. That won’t

support the project by itself, and would need to be matched by an increase in sales activity. I’ll return to this below.

The important work of Comann nam Pàrant continues, and CnaG is delighted to continue providing corporate support. This year, with support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig, we were able to add another officer to this team – critically important given the nationwide scope of the work in supporting parents and prospective parents of GME pupils.

Turning again to the question of the coronavirus pandemic and its impacts. When this developed, close to the very end of the financial year, it did affect our work. With schools closed, and travel restrictions in place, the Iomairt team and the rest of CnaG’s staff had to work from home.

The Iomairt team deserve praise for the way in which they have turned their efforts from ‘face to face’ sessions to online delivery of Gaelic activities – continuing to support GME schools.

We have also been very grateful for the support we have received from Bòrd na Gàidhlig at this difficult time, and the flexibility they have shown in their approach to funding and outputs.

Unfortunately this has been a further challenge to Spòrs Gàidhlig. We estimate a loss already of some £53,000 in lost or cancelled bookings. The two Spòrs Gàidhlig staff were placed on furlough - the Government’s job retention scheme, and that remains the position at the end of the financial year. There can be no doubt that 2020/21 will be a challenge for Gaelic development – and that only as the smallest part of the disease’s global impact.

Finally, and in conclusion, I have to thank the members of the CnaG Board. They support and direct the staff team throughout the year, and without their work and that of so many others, our work would not be as successful.

Bòrd na Gàidhlig development contract

Bòrd na Gàidhlig is by far the most significant financial supporter of CnaG’s work. Without it, we could not continue our work in schools, communities and among the youth.

Youth work

Every one of our local Iomairt team deliver their own specific programme – based upon their own experience and abilities, and that available to them in their area, but also on the opinions of the young people themselves. A taste of this activity will be offered in the pages that follow. Complementing this work is the CnaG ‘national programme’ including:

• Cuach na Cloinne – the primary school football competition which goes from strength to strength;

• The Sradagan summer Camps – two each year - now well-established in Harris;

• Support for local ‘Sradagan’ groups – 29 now established across Scotland;

• Another ‘Turas nan Eilean’ cycle trip from Barra to Ness

‘GLÒIR’

Bho chionn bliadhna air ais air an 4mh latha dhen Cheitean bha Gàidheil, fad is farsaing, a’ cruinneachadh anns an Usher Hall airson oidhche shònraichte mar chuimhneachan air Iain MacLeòid. Bha Iain gu math ainmeil ann an saoghal na Gàidhlig, is e a bha as cionn An Comunn Gàidhealach airson iomadh bliadhna. ‘S e oidhche air leth a bha seo le coisirean air feadh a Ghaidhealtachd agus as na bailtean mòr a’ tighinn còmhla a sheinn agus bha an Coisir Soisgeul ann cuideachd.

SEACHDAIN NA GÀIDHLIG

Mar phàirt de Sheachdain na Gàidhlig 2019, bha Bun-sgoil Taobh na Pàirce agus Iomairt Ghàidhlig Dhùn Èideann a’ cumail màidne chofaidh aig an sgoil, air Diluain, 11mh den t-Samhain, gus maoinean a thogail airson Carthannais Thaice MhicIlleMhaoil. ‘S e fior deagh latha a bh’ ann agus bha e gu math soirbheachail le taic bho sgoilearan C4 agus £416.29 air a thogail.

CÈILIDH TEAGHLAICH DO DH’URRAS EILIDH NICLEÒID

“CEÒL IS CRÀIC “

Iomairt Ghàidhlig Dhùn Èideann le Àrd Sgoil Sheumais Ghilleasbuig agus Bun sgoil Taobh na Pàirce.

Le taic bho BhnaG, choinnich Ann le sgoilearan/ an coimhearsnachd gach seachdain ag ullachadh ‘son 3 “Oidhcheannan Òirgridh” (2019).

Chaidh an treas fhear a chumail 12 Dùbhlachd 2019 aig Dr Bells, Lite; togail airgid airson “Eilidh Macleod Trust”. Bha seinneadairean/ luchd-ciùil Bun sgoil Taobh na Pàirce agus Àrd Sgoil Sheumais Ghilleasbuig air an àrd-ùrlar le taic bho Ruairidh Graham.

Bha Bothan ann an com-pàirteachas le seinneadairean/ luchd-ciùil agus ceilidh bho 9f.

Last year on the 4th of May, Gael’s came together for a celebration of Gaelic Spiritual Music, in memory of John Macleod. John Macleod was a much-respected champion of the Gaelic language in Scotland, having

worked for a decade as president of An Comunn Gàidhealach.

As part of last year’s Gaelic Festival, Taobh na Pàirce and Edinburgh Gaelic Initiative held a

coffee morning on Monday the 11th of November to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. With thanks to C4, it was a very successful morning and £416.29 was raised.

“CEÒL IS CRÀIC “

With support from BnaG Ann met pupils/Community each week preparing for 3 “Oidhcheannan Òirgridh” (2019).

The third of these was held on 12th December 2019 at Dr Bells, Leith; fundraiser for Eilidh MacLeod Trust.

Our talented singers and musicians from both Taobh na Pàirce and James Gillespie’s High School took to stage with support from Ruairidh Graham. Bothan were in partnership for this event with musicians/singers and ceilidh band from 9pm.

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We had a Cake and Conversation competition on the 7th February with the children. There were prizes for the best tasting and best looking cake. I supplied refreshments.

I organised a Drama day for primary school children in Primary 6 and 7 from surrounding areas that teach GME. We had 100 pupils from Conndorat, Meadowburn, Mount Cameron and James Hamilton Primary school doing drama workshops with workshop tutors including David Walker and Melissa Deans.

On the 29th February along with North Lanarkshire Community Learning & Development, we put on a Gaidhlig fun day open to families for free. There was a mixture of workshops being run in Gaelic, from conversation, Singing and reading with Linda from CBeebies, drama with Artair Donald. Also Cumbernauld Gaelic Choir were present. Over 250 people including adults attended.

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S Air an 7mh dhan Ghearran bha Co-fharpais Ceic agus Comradh again anns a sgoil aig am lon. Rinn a chlann diofar seorsa ceicichean agus bha duais ann airson an te as blasta agus an te a bha coimhead nas snoige. Thu mise dhaibh suth agus criosps cuideachd agus bha a chlann ag innse dhomh ciamar a rinn iad na ceicichean aca.

Air an 27mh dhan Ghearran chuir mi air doigh latha Drama le bun-sgoiltean Gaidhlig timcheall oirnn. Thanaig ceud sgoilear air class 6 agus 7 a Conndorat, Meadowburn, Mount Cameron agus Sgoil Na Coille Nuaidh ann a Kilmarnock. Chaidh seo a chumail a a talla ann a Comar Nan Allt. Chuir iad seachad bho 9.30m gu 2.30f a deanamh buitean-obrach drama comhla ri cleasaichean drama Melissa Deans, Daibhidh Walker agus eile. Deagh fheasgair a bh’ann le torr spors agus fealla-dha.

Bha latha mor againn le Leum-A-Steach Gu Gaidhlig a chaidh a chuir air doigh le Comhairle Lanraig A-Tuath air an 29mh dhan Ghearran, ann an Ard Sgoil Greenfaulds. Bha an latha fosgailte dha teaghlaichean, soar san asgaidh agus measgachadh de bhuitean-obrach ann bho Seinn Agus Leugh Le Linda bho CBeebies, Drama comhla ri Artair Donald, café airson comradh agus thainig Coisir Comar Nan Allt ann, agus bha ceol ann cuideachd. Thanaig 250 neach chun a latha agus bha deagh latha aig a h-uile duine.

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On a thòisich mi air ais san dreuchd aig deireadh 2019 tha mi air a bhith a’ cur eòlas air na tha air a bhith a’ tachairt anns an sgìre fhad sa bha mi air fòrladh màthaireil. Bha clann sgoile Sir E Scott fortanach pàirt a ghabhail ann am FilmG uair eile le taic bho Jayne NicDhòmhnaill eadar an Dàmhair agus an Dùbhlachd. Chaidh Sradagan an Tairbeart a lìbhrigeadh le Jayne cuideachd, le taic saor-thoileach bho triùir sgoilear san còigeamh agus an t-siamh bliadhna san àrd-sgoile.

Anns a’ Ghearran bha mi ag obair gus club ùr a stèidheachadh do sgoilearan S1/S2 san àrd-sgoil. Chaidh a’ chiad seisean as dèidh na sgoile a chumail sa Mhàrt aig Taigh-Òsta na Hearadh. Cluich sinn geamaichean, rinn sinn tòrr còmhradh agus dh’ ith sinn cus piotsa! Anns na seiseanan eile a chaidh an cumail mus robh glasadh-sluagh ann bha sinn ag obair gus suaidhcheantas a chruthachadh airson a’ chlub agus chluich sinn farpais-cheist.

Tha Sradagan air a bhith a’ ruith gu soirbheachail le timicheall air deichnear a’ gabhail pàirt gach seachdain. A-measg nan cur-seachadan tha na sgoilearan air a bhith a’ cumail fallain le bhith a’ cluiche ann an talla-spòrs na sgoile, a’ cluiche ball-coise agus a’ ruith rèisean eadar-dhealaichte le diofar rudan leithid bailiuns. Tha iad cuideachd air a bhith a’ cruthachadh le Lego agus Hama Beads. Air an latha mu dheireadh de Sradagan, mus do dhùin na sgoiltean sa Mhàrt, fhuair a’ chlann cothrom preasant a chruthachadh airson Latha nam Mathraichean. Bha aca ri dealan-dè a dheanamh le peant agus an casan! Bha na mathraichean air an dòigh glan gam fosgladh air an latha.

Both secondary and primary pupils at Sir E Scott school were given the opportunity to take part in FilmG 2020. This year, they were supported by Jayne Macdonald, while I was on maternity leave. Jayne was also involved in maintaining the P1 – 4 Sradagan club which runs every Monday after school during term time.

In February I was able to establish a new after school club for S1/S2 pupils. The initial meeting was held in the Harris hotel where we played games, brainstormed some ideas for future dates and ate a lot of pizza! Prior to lockdown other activities included a general knowledge quiz and Pictionary.

Children continue to enjoy Sradagan activities every Monday during term-time within the school building. This year activities have included various sports in the gym hall and races, creating designs from Hama beads and building structures from Lego and Jenga blocks. Our final session before lockdown was spent creating Mother’s day gifts using paint and feet (!) to produce butterflies. The children then framed the pictures and gift wrapped them.

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FILMG 2019  

Bha sgoilearan san darna agus an treas bliadhna bho Sgoil Bhagh a’Chaisteil uabhasach trang a’ cur ri chèile ’s a’ clàradh fiolm aithriseach goirid airson farpais FilmG 2019. Fhuair iad oideachadh air leth ann an sgilean na meadhanan ’s Dòmhnall Eòghainn MacFhionghain cuide riutha son ceithir latha. Rinn iad fiolm mu dheidhinn tubaist an ‘Annie Jane’ a chaidh air tir air traigh Bhatarsaigh.

DÌLEAB AIR A CHUAN

Bha sgoilearan bho Sgoil Bhagh a’ Chaisteil fortanach pàirt a ghabhail ann an ‘Dileab Air a Chuan’ mar phàirt de Celtic Connections 2020 a ghabh àite anns an Talla Chonsairt Rìoghail ann an Glaschu. Bha seachdain gu math trang aig na sgoilearan a’ ruith suas chun a chuirm-chiùil ’s iad ag ionnsachadh na h-òrain gu lèir, a sheinn iad còmhla ri cluicheadairean, seinneadairean agus sgoilearan bho na h-Eilean an Iar.

CUACH NA CLOINNEGhabh sgoilearan bho Bun-Sgoil Bhagh a’ Chaisteil pàirt ann am farpais bhliadhnail Cuach na Cloinne ann an Uibhist. Bha sia duine deug de chloinn an làthair bho Barraigh agus bha tòrr spòrs aig a h-uile duine.

Pupils in second and third year from Castlebay School were busy filming their short film for FilmG. The pupils got a fantastic opportunity to learn all about the process with Dòmhnall Eòghainn MacKinnon, who spent the last four days tutoring them.

Pupils from Castlebay School were fortunate to be able to take part in Dileab Air a Chuan as part of Celtic Connections 2020 which took place in The Royal Concert Hall Glasgow. The pupils had a very busy week running up to the concert rehearsing and learning all the songs which they performed alongside other performers and pupils from throughout the western isles.

Primary pupils from Castlebay Community took part in the annual Cuach na Cloinne tournament in Uist. Sixteen children attended where lots of fun was had by all.

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FÈILL NOLLAIG TRÀTH BHLIADHNAICHEAN

Aig àm na Nollaig, thàinig na sgoiltean àraich ann an Iar Thuath Leòdhas còmhla ann an Talla Bhuirgh airson madainn de ealain, seinn agus geamannan. Thàinig 52 leanabh agus bha tòrr spòrs agus fealla-dhà aca còmhla. Bha ealain againn le Alice Macmillan, seinn agus sgeulachd Bookbug còmhla ri Shona Nis a’ Mhaoilein agus geamannan còmhla ri Kirsteen. Chaidh am biadh againn a dhèanamh le Comunn Eachdraidh Nis, sheinn sinn òrain Nollaig agus fhuair a h-uile leanamh poca deideagan airson a thoirt dhachaigh leotha. Chòrd an turas agus a’ mhadainn riutha gu mòr!

PRÒISEACT EADAR-GHINEALACH

Chaidh seiseanan bèicearachd a chuir air dòigh dha clann Sgoil Shiaboiist anns an t-Samhain, airson cothrom a thoirt dhaibh sgillean ionnsachahd bho na boireannach bhon bhuidheann, Clann an Latha an-dè. Rinn sinn cèichichean, pancakes agus rudan milis eile agus ‘s e deagh chothrom a bh’ ann dhaibh a bhith a’ còmhradh agus a’ cur eòlas air a chèile. ‘S e buannachd glè mhath a bh’ ann gun d’ fhuair sinn millsean an cois cothrom còmhraidh!

TURAS SRADAGAN TAOBH SIAR DHA NA HEARADH

Chaidh turas a chuir air dòigh sa Ghearran dha feadhainn dhan a chlann a a bhios a’ frithealadh Sradagan air Taobh Siar Leòdhas. Chuir sinn seachad leth latha ann an aonad Scaladale, far am bidh iad a’ cur an àirde raon deigh sa Gheamhradh airson spèilearachd fheuchainn. Bha cuideachd geamannan againn anns an togalach. Chòrd e ruitha gu mòr a bhith còmhla ri caraidean a’ feuchainn air dùbhlan ùr. ‘S e sgil a bh’ ann dha rìreabh agus rinn iad uile glè mhath!

We held an event in the Clan MacQuarrie hall for the nurseries in North Lewis in early December for a morning or songs, stories and art. We had 52 children with us, Alice Macmillan for some art and creativity, Shona MacMillan did some bookbug sessions, and the children enjoyed some games with Kirsteen. We had lovely food made by Comunn Eachdraidh Nis, sang some Christmas songs and each child got a party bag to take home with them. They all had a great morning.

We had four weeks of baking sessions arranged for the upper primary class in Shawbost School to work along side the Clann an Latha an-dè group. We made cakes and pancakes and had a great time chatting and getting to know one another. It was an added bonus that we had some lovely baking to take home!

During the mid-term break in February, some of the children who attend Sradagan on the West Side of Lewis had a trip to the Scaladale Centre in Harris. They got to master their Skating on the articifial skating rink that is set up during the winter months as well as some fun games

in the centre. The skating wasn’t as easy as we first

thought but they got on well

and thoroughly e n j o y e d

themselves.

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is TURAS A DH’UIBHIST AGUS ÈIRISGEIGH

Thug mi buidheann às An Rubha air turas a dh’Uibhist agus Èirisgeidh san Iuchar 2019. Bha sianar anns a’ bhuidheann, agus cha robh duine aca an Uibhist no Èirisgeigh ron a seo. ‘Se latha fada agus trang a bh’ann. Dh’fhàg sinn Steòrnabhagh aig sia uairean sa mhadainn, agus bha e ochd uairean a dh’oidhche mu’s do thill sinn. Nuair a fhuair sinn a dh’Uibhist a Tuath, chaidh sinn air cuairt ann an coille Langass a choimhead air a’ mathan ainmeil Hercules. Bha seo na iognadh mòr dhan bhuidheann, agus thog iad selfie no dhà còmhla ris. Chaidh sinn an uairsin gu Èirisgeigh, far an do choinnich sinn ri Oifigear Iomairt Uibhist agus Èirisgeigh, MairiAnna, còmhla ri a buidheann. Ghabh sinn cuairt air an eilean, far an do dh’innis am buidheann Uibhisteach dhuinn mu eachdraidh Èirisgeigh.

Bha seo gu math inntinneach agus dh’ionnsaich sinn tòrr. Chaidh sinn an uairsin chun an tràigh far an robh sinn a’ cluich geamanan còmhla. As dèidh dhuinn Èirisgeigh fhàgail, thadhail sinn air na pònaidhean ann an Loch Sgiobart (ann an Uibhist a Deas). Thug sinn currain agus aran dhaibh – ‘s iad a bha toilichte. Agus mar sin, bha an t-àm ann an aiseag fhaighinn air ais a Leòdhas.

TACHARTASAN CUIMHNEACHAIDH

Airson Là Cuimhnichidh a chomharrachadh bha Sradagan an Rubha a dèanamh lanntairean sònraichte le crom-lusan orra agus a’ sgeadachadh briosgaidean ann an dath dearg. Aig Sradagan Loch a Tuath bha sinn a’ bèicearachd briosgaidean agus ga’n còmhdach mar crom-lusan. Ged a bha seo a’ còrdadh ris a’ chlann gu lèir, bha iad cuideachd mothachail air carsan a tha sinn a dèanamh rudan mar seo. Chaidh iad uile dhachaigh leis na rinn iad, agus iad a’ smaointinn agus a’ cuimhneachadh air cho cudthromach ‘sa tha an t-àm a tha seo.

FILM GTha mìosan trang air a bhidh ann còmhla ri sgoilearan An Rubha agus iad ag ullachadh airson Film G. Dh’obraich class a ceithir gu seachd gu dlùth a’ taghadh caractaran agus àiteachan airson filmeadh, aodach freagarrach airson na caractaran, props agus nas cudthromaiche na sin, na faclan ionnsachadh. Bha latha math filmeadh againn ‘s An Dùbhlachd, agus chòrd e gu mòr ris a h-uile duine a bha a sàs. Fhuair an fiolm ‘Cuairt Cuimhne’ àite air a gheàrr-liosta, agus chaidh ceithrir chloinne gu tachartas Film G anns a Ghearran far an do bhuannaich iad an duais airson an fiolm as fheàrr aison buidheann òigridh. Nach iad a rinn math.

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In July 2019, I took a group of six children on a day trip to Uist and Eriskay. The group had never been to the southern islands. It was a long and busy day, but good fun. We left Stornoway at six in the morning and got back at eight at night. When we arrived in North Uist, we took a walk in Langass forest to visit the famous wooden bear Hercules. The group were in awe of Hercules and took some selfies with him. We then made our way to Eriskay where we met our Uist and Eriskay officer, Maryann, and her group. They took us on a tour of the island and gave us a brief history on some of the famous landmarks. It was all very interesting, and we learnt a lot. We finished off our trip to Eriskay with some fun games on the beach. On our way to the ferry, we visited the ponies in Loch Skiport (South Uist). We fed them some carrots and bread, and how they enjoyed these treats. It was time to make our way back to Lewis, after a very successful day.

To mark Remembrance Day, Sradagan an Rubha made special poppy lanterns and decorated biscuits with red icing and chocolate buttons to represent a poppy. At Sradagan Loch a Tuath children baked their biscuits and again decorated them in the form of a poppy. Although this was enjoyable for all, the children understood why they were doing things like this. They all went home with what they had made, but also thinking about and remembering why this time is an important time.

It has been a busy time working with class 4-7 from Sgoil an Rubha as they prepared for Film G. The class worked hard on choosing characters, filming locations, costumes, props and more importantly learning their lines. We had a good filming day in December, and everyone involved enjoyed it. The film ‘Cuairt Cuimhne’ made it on to the shortlist. Four of the characters had the opportunity to attend the Film G event in February 2020, where the won in the category ‘Best Youth Film’. Well done to them.

CUAIRT AIR AN DÙTHAICH GU DIÙIRINIS

Mas do thòisich saor-làithean an t-samhraidh, ghabh Clas 6 bho Bhun-sgoil Ghàidhlig Phort Rìgh cuairt air Diùirinis. Gu fortunnach, fhuair sinn greim air a’ mheanbh-bhus agus b’ i Shona NicDhòmhnaill a bha air a’ chuibhle stiùiridh. Roi làimh, bha sinn air ceisteachan ullachadh gus a’ chlann a chumail beòthail. Cha robh duine aca riamh air a bhi am broinn taigh-tasgaidh Pheadar MhicAsgail, a dh’ innseas an sgeulachd mu fhuamhaire a chinnidh fhèin. Bha Peadar gu math fialaidh dhan chlann ann a bhith toirt seachad peann agus peansail do gach aon. Ach bha uidh aige ann a bhith cluinntinn òran Ghàidhlig. Is e bh’ air a dhòigh glan nuair a ghabh iad Mòrag à Dùn Bheagain!. Tha còisir sgoile Eilidh NicCoinnich binn air seinn. A-measg nan ceistean, bhathar ri ainm a chur air am mac as ainmeile a tha aig Peadar: Dànaidh MacAsgail!Thog sinn oirnn do Dhùn MhicLeòid a bha cur thairis le luchd-turais. Chòrd e ritha gu robh pìobairean nar measg a sheinn air a’ phìob air mùirean an Dùin. Bha sinn taingeil dha na taighean-tasgaidh a dh’ fhosgail an dorsan dhuinn gu saor an asgaidh. Aig Café Blasta, ghabh sinn sliseagan agus reòiteag, mas do thadhail sinn air seann Chladh Chille Mhoire far a bheil dust nan Leòdach is pìobairean MhicCruimein. Aig seann Cladh Thrumpainn ghabh sinn ‘Fàilte Rubha Bhàitirnis’. Ged nach b’ e là tioram a bha ann, thàinig piseach air anns an Aodann Bhàin far an tug sinn fichead mionaid a’ leam is a’ bocail ann am pàirce na cloinne.Bha e na bhuannachd air ar cuairt gu Diùirinis nach robh againn ri buidseat mòr sam bith a lorg. Tha e na phriomhachas dhuinn aig CnaG an òigridh a thoirt do dh’ àrainneachdan ùra. Còrdaidh tachartasan annasach ritha gu mòr. Ach tha e luachmhor cuideachd cuairt a ghabhail a tha faisg air làimh. Tha ceangal làidir eadar fèin- mhisneachd agus an eòlas a th’ againn air an dùthaich dham buin sinn.

SGIOBA SPÒIRS AIG SLIGEACHAN

Is e togail cridhe a bha ann sa Chèitean a bhith faicinn meanbh-bus Spòrs Gàidhlig air beulaibh Sgùrr nan Gillean. Tha na faclan Gàidhlig air cliathaich a’ bhus freagarrach mu choinneamh iomhaigh cho tarraingeach ris An Cuilthionn. Nuair a thig sgioba Spòrs Gàidhlig thugainn, tha e na thogail dhuinn uile leis na sgilean sònraichte a bheir iad leotha. Chan e a-mhàin gu bheil am bus a’ cuir thairis le glogaidean ghorma agus deisichean shnàimh ach gu bheil an sgioba fhèin a’ toirt misneachd mhòir dha ar n-òigridh.Thug sinn 25 àrd-sgoilearan gu Allt an Daraich a tha faisg air Sligeachan agus mar a dh’ionnsaich sinn air an là, gu math freagarrach airson spòrs uisge a bhrosnachadh. Is e gniomh dàna a tha ann a bhith gabhail leum dhan uisge. Agus bheir e misneachd dhan òigridh nuair a bhios aca ri iomadach seòrsa leum eile a ghabhail nam beatha a-rithist. Air là a màireach, chum sinn bùithnean obrach Mapland do bhun-sgoilearan An Àth Leathainn. Cha b’ e a-mhàin clann na Gàidhlig a bha an sàs leis ach clann na Beurla cuideachd. Bha sluagh mòr ann. An làthair aig an tachartas bha ceannard na sgoile, Mgr Atkins, a tha a’ togail na Gàidhlig gu math agus ga cleachdadh leis a’ chlann gach là. Tha tòrr ri ionnsachadh ann a bhith ceangal ri chèile mìrean- measgaichte den mhap as mò de dh’ Alba san t-saoghail. Ach nas mò na sin tha an t-eadar-dhealachadh a ni Spòrs Gàidhlig do spiorad ar cànain choimhearsnachd air feadh Alba. Tha fiughar againn ri tilleadh dha na làithean buidhe a-rithist.

DAY TRIP AROUND DUIRINISH

Before the summer holidays, we treated Primary 6 from BSGPR to a day trip. As usual in the Misty Isle, we had two itineraries on board our minibus, driven by Shona MacDonald from the school. Beforehand, Sìne had prepared a questionnaire to keep everybody engaged with the sights and sounds.None of the children in Primary six had ever been to the Giant Macaskill Museum. Peter, the host, kept them entertained. He had kindly laid out a pencil and pen for each child though he did request a Gaelic song in return. Without hesitation they sang Mòrag à Dùn Bheagain. One of the ‘questions’ was to discover the name of Peter’s most famous son. He is of course the cyclist, Danny Macaskill.Switching our clan allegiances, we drove to Dunvegan Castle. There were many questions to answer there. The place was full of visitors who were delighted when several of our team played the pipes on the castle ramparts.Costs at both attractions were waived for which we were grateful. We ate chips and ice cream at the ‘Blasta’ café before visiting the old Kilmuir cemetery to answer questions about the ancient Macleods and their pipers, the MacCrimmons. At the historical church of Trumpan, we sang Fàilte Rubha Bhàitirnis. Heading home, the day suddenly improved so we spent 20 minutes in the Edinbane play park.This was a day that was easily achieved. It cost us very little. At CnaG we love to introduce young people to exciting new places. We are committed to investing in exciting adventurous activities with Spòrs Gàidhlig. There is also value in the simplicity of a day like the one we had in Dùirinish. Before you can know other places, it is an important part of growing up to develop a sense of place in your own surroundings.

OUTDOOR LEARNING AT SLIGACHAN

The sight of our CnaG minibus in front of Sgurr nan Gillean at Sligeachan is one that lifts the heart. The large Gaelic lettering on the side of the bus stands bold when viewed at one of Scotland’s most iconic sites. Whenever Spòrs Gàidhlig visit, they bring a rainbow of colours into our everyday lives. Not only is their trailer overflowing with bright blue bonnets and wetsuits in all sizes but the team itself brings a spirit of adventure and excitement.In May, they took twenty five high school pupils to Allt an Daraich - a short trek from Sligachan and a perfect place for gorge jumping and outdoor learning. This is a bold activity and at its heart is confidence building which is something the team gets better at all the time. Developing the courage to leap stirs the ability to take all kinds of other leaps later on in life.During their May slot in Skye, Spòrs Gàidhlig also visited Broadford primary school to deliver Mapland. A large number participated from both Gaelic and English classes. We were particularly pleased that the head teacher, Mr Atkins, was in attendance himself and that he is embracing Gaelic by not merely learning it in his own time but by using it with the children every day. There is a world of inter-disciplinary learning for children in connecting the largest known jigsaw of Scotland’s map. Bigger still is the difference that Spòrs Gàidhlig is making to our young language communities across Scotland. We look forward to a return to these golden days!

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naich Club Spòrs is a new after school club on

Mondays that has been formed for kids in Oban aged 8-12. Led by Kimberly Campbell with a focus on exercise, sport and health.

Each Tuesday we have a ‘Sradagan Beaga’ session for p1-3 where we play games, sing songs and do arts and crafts. Here are the kids with some spring flowers they made.

On Thursday 5th March we had a Gaelic coffee morning at Oban High School involving pupils, teachers and parents, with refreshments kindly provided by the canteen. It was a great chance for a casual chat and to share ideas for Gaelic events in the area. In the afternoon the pupils had a podcast workshop led by Alasdair Murray from West Highland college where they got to put together their very own podcast episode using recording and musical equipment.

CLUB SPÒRS

Chaidh Club Spòrs a stèidheachadh san Òban aig toiseach a’ bhliadhna. ’S e club ùr a th’ ann do dh’aois 8-12, a’ tachairt gach Diluain às dèidh na sgoile aig talla an Eaglais. Tha Kimberly Chaimbeul aig an stiùir, is i a’ cluich spòrs mar ball-coise, hocaidh is ball-basgaid leis a’ chlann. Tha fòcas ann air eacarsaich, spòrs is slàinte.

SRADAGAN BEAGA

Gach Dimàirt tha ‘Sradagan Beaga’ a’ tachairt aig àm lòn airson P1-3 far am bi sinn a’ cluich geamanan, a’ seinn òrain agus a’ dèanamh ealain. Seo an clann le fliùraichean a rinn iad fhèin.

MADAINN COFAIDH AGUS BUTH-OBRACH POD-CHRAOLADH

Air 5mh am Màirt 2020 bha madainn cofaidh againn aig Àrd Sgoil an Òbain còmhla ri h-uile duine bhon sgioba Gàidhlig – sgoilearan, tidsearan aig a bheil Gàidhlig agus pàrantan cuideachd. Bha tì, cofaidh is cèic blasta air a dhèanamh leis an canteen, agus ’s e teansa bh’ ann airson eòlas a chur air a chèile agus beachdan a sgaoileadh airson iomairtan Gàidhlig san sgìre. Air an fheasgar bha buth-obrach Pod-craodhladh aig na sgoilearan, air a ruith le Alasdair Murray bho Colaiste an Iar. Bha aca ri cuspair a thaghadh, sgrioptan a chur ri chèile, clàraidhean a dhèanamh agus ceòl a chur ris. ’S e deagh spòrs a bh’ ann agus bha e a’ toirt cothrom dhaibh a bhith cruthachail agus teicneòlas sònraichte a chleachdadh.

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Ìle AFTER-SCHOOL CLUB AT PORT CHARLOTTE

PRIMARY

We started a new after school club every Tuesday in January 2020. The school used to have a Gaelic choir at that time, and the parents wanted us to provide more activities and games with Gaelic as well as the songs.

We played hide and seek and games with a ball and other toys, agus we sang action songs with children from P2-7. We’ve had good feedback from the teachers and parents so far!

GAELIC FILM AWARDS

FilmG is a very successful project in Islay, and we were on the shortlist for the fourth year running with team Ìle Bhèo from Islay High school.

We worked with Dòl Eoin MacKinnon on the filming and editing in November 2019. In the weeks beforehand we wrote an original story, we made our script, and prepared the clothes, make-up and music. Also we went to Islay House Hotel to film, a unique and beautiful place.

In February, we went to Glasgow for the awards’ night. We stayed in a hotel, went out for dinner, and everyone really enjoyed it.

ISLAY NATURE CENTRE

We made a connection with the Islay Nature Centre in Port Charlotte this year, and gave them support with their Taic Freumhan Coimhearsnachd application for new signage and displays in the Centre.

There hasn’t been any Gaelic in the Centre before. And we now have an agreement with them to work on the John Muir Award with the schools, RSPB and other organisations.

In February, our Iomairt officer gave a talk with information on Gaelic

in the natural environment and showed a short film we had made.

CLUB SPÒRS ‘S SEINN, BUN-SGOIL PHORT SGIOBA

Thòisich sinn club ùr às dèidh na sgoile gach Dimàirt Am Faoilleach 2020. B’abhaist do chòisir Ghàidhlig a bhith san sgoil aig an àm sin, agus dh’iarr na pàrantan oirnn tuilleadh cur-seachadan agus geamannan leis a’Ghàidhlig cho math ris na h-òrain.

Chluich sinn falach-fead agus geamannan eile le bàl agus dèideagan eile, agus sheinn sinn ceòl is cleas còmhla ri chloinn eadar P2-7. Fhuair sinn deagh ais-mholadh bho na tìdsearan agus pàrantan gun ìre seo!

FILMG 2020

Tha FilmG na phròiseact glè soirbheasach ann an Ìle, agus bha sinn air a’ gheàrr-liosta** ‘son a’ cheathramh bliadhna ann an sreath le sgioba Ìle Bheò bho Àrd-sgoil Ìle.

Dh’obair sinn le Dòl Eòin MacFhionghain gus am filmeadh agus ath-dheasachadh a dhèanamh san t-Samhain 2019. Anns na seachdainean roimhe sgrìobh sinn bun-sgeulachd, rinn sinn an sgriobt fhèin agus dh’ullaich sinn an t-aodach, maise-gnùis agus ceòl. Cuideachd, chaidh sinn do Thaigh-òsta Taigh Ìle a’ filmeadh, àite air leth agus àlainn.

Sa Ghearran, chaidh sinn a Ghlaschu airson oidhche nan duaisean. Dh’fhàn sinn ann an taigh-òsta, ghabh sinn dinnear a-mach agus bu mhòr a chòrd e ris a h-uile duine.

IONAD NÀDAR ÌLE

Rinn sinn conaltradh le Ionad Nàdar Ìle ann am Port Sgioba am-bliadhna, agus thug sinn taic dhaibh le foirm-iarrtais Taic Freumhan Coimhearsnachd airson sanasan agus taisbeanaidhean ùra san Ionad.

Chan eil Gàidhlig air a bhith san Ionad riamh roimhe. Agus tha aontachadh a-nis againn leotha a dh’obair air Duais Iain Muir agus pròiseactan eile còmhla ris na sgoiltean, RSPB, agus buidheannan eile.

Sa Ghearran, ghabh ar n-oifigear Iomairte òraid san Ionad le fiosrachadh air Gàidhlig san àrainneachd nàdarra agus sheall sinn film goirid a rinn sinn.

Loch Morlich near Aviemore was a wonderful setting for a day out stand-up paddleboarding for a group of youngsters from the Inverness area. Paddleboarding is a big trend at the moment and the Spòrs Gàidhlig team are qualified to deliver this activity. Everyone had a great day and learned some new skills.

Loch Moy is only a 15 minute drive out of Inverness and was a great location for a day of stand-up paddleboarding last summer. Some of the youngsters had tried the sport before but it was new to others. Everyone made some new friends and had a great time.

Pupils in S1 & S2 had a fantastic time at the end of the year preparing for, filming and then editing their FilmG entry. The whole group got involved in the different aspects of the project – acting, lighting, sound, script-writing and editing. They called their film ‘An Crùnadh’ – you’ll have to watch on the FilmG website to find out about the plot twist!

LOCH MÒRLICH

Chruinnich buidheann airson cuairt gu ruige Loch Mòrlich le Iomairt Ghàidhlig Inbhir Nis agus iùlaichean Spòrs Gàidhlig. Bha latha air leth blàth, grianach ann agus bha a h-uile duine ann an deagh shunnd. A’ feuchainn air a’ bhòrd air an glùinean aig toiseach an latha, rinn a h-uile duine a’ chùis air seasamh ro dheireadh an latha! Sa mhadainn, dh’obraich iad air sgilean agus às dèidh greim bìdh aig àm lòn, dh’fhalbh iad cuairt bheag taobh thall an locha. Abair spòrs!

LOCH MÒIGH

Bha an aimsir fàbharach agus an locha ciùin, latha a chaidh òigridh na sgìre air turas gu Loch Mòigh le Iomairt Ghàidhlig Inbhir Nis agus Spòrs Gàidhlig. Bha feadhainn ann air fheuchinn roimhe ach feadhainn ga fheuchainn airson a’ chiad uair! Ro dheireadh an latha, bha a h-uile duine comasach air am bòrd-seasaimh aca fhèin a stiùireadh agus rinn iad caraidean ùra cuideachd.

FIOLM G

Dh’obraich buidheann bhon chiad ‘s an dàrna bliadhna gu dìcheallach aig deireadh 2019, ag ullachadh airson farpais Fiolm-G. Chruinnich iad turas no dhà gach seachdain thar beagan mìosan gus sgriobt agus sgeulachd ullachadh, agus ‘s iad a rinn math leis a sin. Thaghadh iad sgriobt a dhèanamh mu dheidhinn caractaran a’ farpais an aghaidh a chèile airson Banrìgh / Rìgh nan sgoilearan. Cò bhuannaich? Uill, feumaidh sibh am fiolm aca, ‘An Crùnadh’, fhaicinn gus faighinn a-mach! Thadhail Dòmhnall Eòghainn MacFhionghain, eòlaiche fiolm agus cleasachd, airson ar cuideachadh air an latha fiolmaidh agus rinn sinn an gearradh an ath latha.

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hist A youth group from Uist enjoyed their visit to Na

Gearrannan in Lewis. They visited many places including the Callanish Stones and the Alpaca’s in Callanish before heading to Na Gearrannan. They enjoyed looking around the village and Taigh Làta, tha blackhouse we had booked for the evening.

We also went to Ness and did many fun things there, the bowling at Spòrs Nis provided a lot of entertainment.

Catriona & Eilidh(CLD) and Mary Ann (CnaG) travelled with the group and enjoyed taking them there

We had a Halloween theme at the cafaidh this week, with lots of scary looking cakes and biscuits. The youngsters also got to try some fuarag and they were told the old custom of putting things in the fuarag and the meaning behind each one. They hadn’t heard about this custom and weren’t aware that this used to happen in Uist and many other places. They enjoyed learning about this old custom and the fuarag was tastier than they expected.

Thanks to the S6 pupils again for their help.

We were fortunate to spend a morning fishing on Loch Druidibeag with Seonaidh (Stòras Uibhist) and his friend Norman. They are both very knowledgeable and we learnt a lot from them about fishing and the local environment. A big thank you to Lorna (Stòras Uibhist) for her help organising this session and to Eilidh (CLD) and Mary Ann (CnaG) for helping on the day.We didn’t have any luck catching any fish so we will not be having fish with our chips tonight.

TURAS NA GEARRANAN

Chur buidheann òigridh bho Uibhist seachad oidhche anns Na Gearrannan agus iad air turas ann an Leòdhas agus abair gun do chòrd an gnothach riutha uile. Thadhal sinn air Tursachan Chalanais agus air an Alpaca’s anns an sgìre mus d’fhuair sinn gu Na Gearrannan.

Tha Na Gearranan fhèin gu math inntinneach agus làn eachdraidh agus chòrd e riutha fuireach ann an Taigh Làta airson an oidhche.

Rinn iad rudan spòrsail cuideachd ann an Nis, is feadhainn dhan òigridh a ‘feuchainn bobhla airson a’ chiad uair aig Spòrs Nis.

Chòrd a turas cuideachd ri Catrion&Eilidh (CLD) agus Màiri Anna (CnaG) a chaidh ann còmhla riutha.

FUARAG

Le oidhche Shamhna air fàire, ‘s e sin cuspair a bha againn aig a’ chàfaidh ann an Sgoil Lionacleit air an t-seachdain seo.

Bha cèicean is briosgaidean eagalach gu leòr againn ach cuideachd fhuair an òigridh uile an cothrom fuarag fheuchainn agus beagan ionnsachadh mu dheidhinn na bha a’dol anns an fhuaraig agus an dòigh a bhathar ga cleachdadh air oidhche Shamhna ann an Uibhist agus tòrr àiteachan eile. Cha robh an òigridh eòlach air an t-seann chleachdadh seo agus bha e gu math inntinneach dhaibh am fiosrachadh ùr seo ionnsachadh. Bha an fhuaraig nas blasta na bha iad an dùil cuideachd.

Taing mhòr a-rìthist dha na sgoilearan air an 6mh bliadhna a thàinig airson cuideachadh a thoirt dhuinn.

IASGACH

Ged nach do ghlac sinn iasg an-diugh, bha sinn uabhasach fhèin fortanach madainn a chur seachad ag iasgach aig Loch Druidibeag còmhla Seonaidh (bho Stòras Uibhist agus a’ charaid Tormod. Dh’ionnsaich sinn tòrr bhon dithis aca agus iad gu math eòlach air iasgach agus an àrainneachd mun cuairt oirnn. Taing do Lorna (Stòras Uibhist) airson taic a thoirt seachad airson an seisean a chur air dòigh agus do dh’Eilidh (CLD) agus Mary Ann (CnaG) airson a bhith an làthair air an latha. Gu mi-fhortanch cha bhi iasg againn còmhla ris na chips a-nochd aig dìnnear.

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In February, the annual ‘Gabh an Cothrom’ event took place in the Nicolson Institute. The event is open to all S2 pupils, giving them the chance to see the opportunities that are available to them, if they continue with Gaelic as a subject. There were a variety of organisations present, from across the island, where they spoke to the young people about the work they do and the importance of having Gaelic in their respective jobs. There were also workshops running throughout the morning, among them a Drama workshop with Debbie Mackay from Bannan and also a workshop with Calum Ferguson, a professional footballer, where they had the opportunity to develop their football skills. An evaluation was carried out with pupils after the event to find out their thoughts on the day and according to the results the event was a great success.

CnaG were working closely with the Nicolson Institute Gaelic Choir, for the first two terms of the school year. The Choir were preparing for the Royal National Mod and the Dileab 2019 concert in November. They were involved in three competitions in the Mod; unison singing, 2-part harmony and the puirt-a-beul. The Choir did exceptionally well, winning all their competitions. They were also awarded the prize for the highest points in Gaelic and music in all three competitions. In November, they had the opportunity to sing alongside several well-known bands at the Dileab Concert 2019.

A group of P5-7 pupils in Laxdale School were busy preparing for the annual FilmG competition, before Christmas. They decided to enter the ‘Mobile Short Film’ competition and were very eager to be involved. They wrote their own script and then went on to do the recording and editing themselves, using imovie. They really enjoyed being involved, and are hoping to enter again next year.

GABH AN COTHROM 2020

Sa Ghearran, ghabh an tachartas bhliadhnail ‘Gabh an Cothrom’ àite ann an Sgoil Mhicneacail. ‘S e tachartas a th’ ann airson sgoilearan AS2 air fad, far a bheil iad a’ faighinn a-mach mu na cothroman a tha ann dhaibh ma tha iad a’ gabhail Gàidhlig mar chuspair-sgoile. Bha measgachadh de ghniomachasan bho air feadh nan eilean an làthair airson bruidhinn mun obair aca agus cho feumail ‘s a tha Gàidhlig anns na dreuchdan eadar-dhealaichte aca. Cuideachd bha bùithean-obrach a’ ruith nam measg bha bùth-obrach dràma le Debbie NicAoidh à Bannan agus fhuair na sgoilearan cuideachd an cothrom na sgillean ball-coise aca a leasachadh còmhla ri Calum Feargasdan a bhios a’ cluich ball-coise aig ìre proifeiseanta. Chaidh measadh a dhèanamh leis na sgoilearan an dèidh làimh airson faighinn a-mach mu na beachdan a bh’aca air an là agus a rèir nan toraidhean ‘s e là air leth soirbheachail a bh’ ann.

COISIR SGOIL MHICNEACAIL

Bha Iomairt Sgoil Mhicneacail ag obair gu dlùth còmhla ri Coisir Sgoil Mhicneacail, a’ chiad agus an dàrna teirm den bhliadhn’ sgoile ùr. Bha an Coisir ag ullachadh airson a’ Mhòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail agus cuideachd consairt ‘Dileab’ san t-Samhain. Bha am buidheann a’ coinneachadh dà thrub gach seachdain airson a dhol thairis air na facail agus an ceòl. Bha iad a’ gabhail pàirt ann an trì co-fharpaisean – seinn aon-fhuamach, puirt-a-beul agus seinn ann an co-sheirm. Shoirbhich leotha gu math leis gun do bhuannaich iad anns na trì farpaisean agus ghlèidh iad an duais airson na puingean as airde ann an Gàidhlig agus ceòl anns gach farpais. An uairsin san t-Samhain fhuair iad an cothrom seinn còmhla ri còmhlan-ciùil ainmeil aig an Consairt Dileab 2019.

CLUB FILMG ANN AN SGOIL LACASDAIL

Bha buidheann do sgoilearan clas 5-7 gu math trang ann an Sgoil Lacasdail ro àm na Nollaig, ag ullachadh airson farpais FilmG. Bha a’ chlann gu math misneachail ann a bhith a’ dol an sàs anns a’ chùis. ‘S e ‘ Film Fòn-làimhe’ a thagh iad agus sgrìobh iad an sgriobt iad fhèin. Nuair a bha iad deiseil, thòisich iad a’ dèanamh am fiolmadh agus an gearradh iad fhèin le bhith a’ cleachdadh imovie. Bha iad gu math toilichte leis na choilean iad agus iad an dùil fiolm eile fheuchainn an ath bhliadhn’.

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air a dhealbhachadh le Graficanna