Designing and delivering Gaelic Learner Education: Learning from Charleston Academy

Charleston Academy (Acadamaidh Bhaile Theàrlaich) is a comprehensive secondary school in Inverness with a roll of 724 (September 2025).

The school has taken a proactive and ambitious approach to developing Gaelic (Learners) as part of an inclusive and aspirational curriculum. Staff recognise the value of Gaelic as an important part of Scotland’s linguistic and cultural heritage, and they aim to ensure all young people experience the language in meaningful and enjoyable ways.

All young people study Gaelic (Learners) in S1 and S2, with opportunities to continue in S3, S4 and into the senior phase. Senior phase Gaelic is delivered as a multi‑level class. Advanced Higher Gaelic (Learners) is offered through e‑Sgoil due to staffing and timetabling constraints.

This model supports national and Highland Council aims to increase the number of young people learning and using Gaelic. It promotes equality, inclusion, and positive attitudes towards the language.

The improvement issue

Improvement has been driven by four mutually reinforcing levers:

1. Leadership and Vision
   A shared vision from school leaders to embed Gaelic meaningfully in the life of the school.
2. Curriculum Coherence
   Intentional curriculum design using active, learner‑led approaches.
3. Culture of Celebration
   Ensuring Gaelic success is visible and valued throughout the school.
4. Collaboration and Professional Learning
   Working with other schools, the local authority and national bodies (such as Qualifications Scotland) to strengthen practice.

These improvements build on strong relationships and a nurturing ethos identified through inspection.

What Charleston Academy did

Curriculum Design and Learning Approaches

Gaelic in S1 and S2 is delivered in line with statutory Gaelic Education Guidance (2017). Learning is interactive and learner‑led, supported by scaffolded resources such as English/Gaelic keyword prompts and structured conversational activities. Digital tools and game‑based learning help young people practise vocabulary and present their work creatively. This has improved engagement, confidence, and autonomy.

Cross‑curricular Integration

Other departments, such as English, include Gaelic themes—placenames, mythology and literature—strengthening cultural understanding. A planned Gàidhlig Mythical Creatures project will deepen links between language, culture, and other subjects. Young people explore local history, such as the origins of placenames and the Pictish connections reflected in the school badge. Cross‑curricular art projects also support personal expression and identity.

Pathways and Accreditation

Growing numbers of primary pupils learn Gaelic, and secondary pathways build on this. S3 learners who do not continue Gaelic (Learners) complete a school‑based assessment. Increased teaching time in S1 and S2 has required Advanced Higher to move to e‑Sgoil.

Achievement is recognised through Highland Council’s Naidheachdan Matha, Comataidh Gàidhlig updates, and competitions such as the Inverness Gaelic Mòd. Young people also explore Gaelic‑related employment opportunities, including the Inverness Castle Experience and Gaelic careers events.

Embedding Gaelic in Daily Life

Young people run a Gaelic‑named school café, Srùbag, helping make the language visible each day. Participation in Gaelic events strengthens identity and pride. Plans for bilingual signage aim to further normalise Gaelic around the campus.

What the sustained impact has been

Cultural Embedding

Gaelic is increasingly visible and audible in school life. Participation in performances, competitions and cultural events has deepened young people’s appreciation of Gaelic heritage and strengthened inclusion.

Progression and Participation

More young people now choose to continue Gaelic beyond S2, reversing previous trends.

Attainment

A‑grade passes in National 5 Gaelic (Learners) in 2024 and 2025 were above the national average.

Learner Agency and Engagement

Use of digital tools has improved motivation, personalisation and independence.

Recognition and Celebration

Gaelic achievements are celebrated at assemblies, in CNaidheachdan Matha, and through the annual Comunn na Gàidhlig prize.