GAELI C LANGUAGE PLAN 201 3-2018 · PDF file1 This Plan has been prepared under Section 3 of the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005, and was approved by Bòrd na Gàidhlig on 5 March

www.abdn.ac.uk/gaelicplan

GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN 2013-2018

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This Plan has been prepared under Section 3 of the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005, and was approved by Bòrd na Gàidhlig on 5 March 2013.

UniPrint University of Aberdeen

GAELIC LANGUAGE PLAN 2013-2018

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As Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Aberdeen, I amdelighted to provide the introduction to our first Gaelic Language Plan.

The University of Aberdeen is committed to the aspirations and objectivesincluded in the National Gaelic Language Plan and the Gaelic Language(Scotland) Act 2005.

Our Strategic Plan (2011-2015) spells out the University of Aberdeen’sambition as both an international institution but also as an organisationembedded at the heart of its local community. To that end, we recognisethat we have a considerable role to play through our academic leadershipand civic influence in supporting the objectives set out in the NationalGaelic Language Plan.

The University of Aberdeen is one of five Universities in Scotland invited tocompile a Gaelic Language Plan, reflecting our existing involvement inGaelic language teaching. Our programmes include undergraduate andpostgraduate courses in Gaelic, while in recent years we have pioneered amajor new curriculum that gives all students the opportunity to undertakeSustained Study beyond their core discipline. This programme ensures thatstudents enrol in courses which are not directly related to their coreprogramme over the first two years of a degree, and Gaelic is one of thelinguistic options available. We are also delighted to be one of only twouniversities in Scotland to offer primary and secondary teacher educationprovision in Gaelic through our Bachelor of Education (Honours) programme.

Our research contribution includes work on Gaelic language, linguistics,culture and traditions. Through the School of Language and Literature wesupport research into all areas of Gaelic studies. As a co-lead institution inthe Soillse project, funded by the Scottish Funding Council’s StrategicResearch Develop Grant, we contribute research capacity to inform publicpolicy towards the maintenance and revitalisation of Gaelic language andculture. We also publish the main peer-reviewed journal in the discipline(Scottish Gaelic Studies) and support the endeavours of a number ofacademics in this area.

Alongside our commitment to Gaelic, we also recognise our role in thepreservation and study of the wider linguistic heritage, cultural diversityand identity of the North-East of Scotland. Through the work of ourElphinstone Institute, we help to study and preserve local story-telling,musical and traveller traditions, and Doric, the North-East dialect of Scots.One of our institutional strategic research themes, ‘The North’, involves thedevelopment and delivery of research in a variety of fields includingculture, history and the environment of the North-East of Scotland.

Our Gaelic Language Plan outlines a series of practical institutionalmeasures we will take to raise awareness and increase the usage of theGaelic language as part of our routine corporate activities.

Importantly, the Plan also outlines a series of commitments that go beyondthe inclusion of Gaelic in aspects of routine administration. These seek toadd significant value by outlining the way in which we will work with localauthorities, community groups and other universities to embed meaningfulinitiatives that will make a considerable contribution to the objectives ofthe National Gaelic Language Plan.

Professor Ian Diamond FBA FRSE AcSSPrincipal and Vice-Chancellor

FOREWORD

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Contents

Summary

Chapter 1 Introduction > Setting the context for developing Gaelic Language Plans > Preparing and approving the University of Aberdeen’s Gaelic Language Plan > Overview of the Functions of the University of Aberdeen > Overview of Gaelic in the North-East of Scotland > Overview of the use and promotion of Gaelic within the University’s operations

Chapter 2 Core Commitments > Implementation of the Scottish Government’s Strategic Objectives > Core Commitments > Identity > Communications > Publications > Staffing

Chapter 3 Policy Implications for Gaelic: implementing the National Plan for Gaelic > Policy implications for Gaelic > Overview and commitment to the National Plan for Gaelic > Development Areas > Postgraduate / Research Activity > Undergraduate Teaching > Adult Learning / Widening Participation > Initial Teacher Education and Gaelic language education > Student Support > Community Involvement

Chapter 4 Implementation and Monitoring > Timetable > Publicising the Plan > Administrative arrangements for implementing the Gaelic Language Plan > Monitoring the implementation of the Plan

Contact Details

Glossary and Abbreviations Guide

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The University of Aberdeen recognises that Gaelic is an integral part of Scotland’s heritage, national identity andcultural life. The University is committed to the objectives set out in the National Gaelic Language Plan and,through this Gaelic Language Plan, looks to contribute to the national effort to put in place the necessarystructures and initiatives to ensure that Gaelic has a sustainable future.

The University of Aberdeen recognises that the position of Gaelic is extremely fragile and that if Gaelic is to berevitalised as a living language in Scotland, a concerted effort on the part of government, the public and privatesectors, community organisations and individual speakers is required if we are 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 Aberdeen’s Gaelic Language Plan. It has been prepared within theframework of the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005. It sets out how we envisage using Gaelic in the conductof our core functions, how we will support the use of Gaelic when communicating with the public and keypartners, and how we can contribute to the promotion and development of Gaelic.

The Plan has been prepared in accordance with statutory criteria set out in the 2005 Act, and having regard tothe National Gaelic Language Plan and the Guidance on the Development of Gaelic Language Plans.

The key components of our Gaelic Language Plan are:

Chapter 1 Introduction

This chapter provides the background and context relating to the preparation of Gaelic Language Plans underthe 2005 Act and the structure of the University’s main areas of operation.

Chapter 2 Core Commitments

This chapter sets out how the University of Aberdeen will use, and enable the use of Gaelic in relation to ourmain business functions. It covers key areas of operational activity such as corporate identity, signage,communication with the public and the use of Gaelic on our website. This chapter sets out the basic minimumlevel of Gaelic language provision that we are committed to providing in the lifetime of the Plan.

Chapter 3 Policy Implications for Gaelic: implementing the National Plan for Gaelic

This chapter sets out how the University of Aberdeen will contribute to the implementation of the NationalGaelic Language Plan. It also shows how we will help to implement the national aims for Gaelic Educationthrough increasing, improving and diversifying our Gaelic medium, Gaelic learning and Gaelic awarenessactivities. It also considers how we will take account of Gaelic and our Gaelic Language Plan when drafting newpolicies and considering new strategies.

Chapter 4 Implementation and Monitoring

This chapter sets out how the implementation of our Gaelic Language Plan will be taken forward, and howimplementation and outcomes will be monitored.

A Glossary and Abbreviations Guide is included at the end of the Plan.

Summary

Structure of the Gaelic Language Plan

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CHAPTER 1Introduction

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Introduction

Setting the context fordeveloping Gaelic LanguagePlans

The Gaelic Language (Scotland)Act 2005 and the issuing of anotice:

The Gaelic Language (Scotland)Act 2005 was passed by theScottish Parliament with a view tosecuring the status of the Gaeliclanguage as an official language ofScotland commanding equalrespect to the English language.

One of the key features of the 2005Act is the provision enabling Bòrdna Gàidhlig, the national publicbody responsible for thepreservation of Gaelic, to requirepublic bodies to prepare GaelicLanguage Plans. This provisionwas designed to ensure that thepublic sector in Scotland plays itspart in creating a sustainablefuture for Gaelic by raising itsstatus and profile and creatingpractical opportunities for its use.

Preparing and approving theUniversity of Aberdeen’sGaelic Language Plan

Consultation on a draft Gaelic Plan:

The 2005 Act requires publicbodies to bring the preparation oftheir Gaelic Language Plans to theattention of all interested parties.The University has consultedpublicly on its Gaelic LanguagePlan through a series of publicmeetings and bilateral discussionshosted in the period from April toJune 2012, with representationsmade during the consultationprocess considered andincorporated where appropriate.

Approval of the University ofAberdeen’s Gaelic LanguagePlan:

The Plan was approved by Bòrd naGàidhlig on 5 March 2013.

Overview of the functions ofthe University of Aberdeen

Background

The University of Aberdeen,founded in 1495, is one of the UK’smost internationally distinguisheduniversities. It has a studentpopulation of around 16,000 thatincludes a large number of part-time students and an internationalcommunity of students drawn from120 different countries.

Students are attracted by theUniversity’s combination of 500years of tradition – it is Scotland’sthird oldest and the UK’s fifth mostancient University - but also itssharp focus on the future, notablyon the provision of cutting-edgeresearch and on excellent studentfacilities, such as our new library.

Teaching and Research

The University offers a variedrange of undergraduate andpostgraduate courses in additionto providing many opportunitiesfor postgraduate researchers.Students are able to undertakestudy abroad opportunities, andthe high standard of teaching atthe University ensures that 97% ofgraduates enter work, furtherstudy, or training within sixmonths of graduating.

Flexibility and individuality areamong the University’s realstrengths. With over 600 firstdegree programmes on offer,students can mix, match andswitch subjects as they discovernew interests en route to theirtailor-made degree. Forpostgraduate students, there areopportunities to undertakesupervised research in alldepartments of the University, or tochoose from over 150 taughtMasters programmes which aredesigned to meet the needs of theworkplace in the 21st Century.

The University’s curriculum isgreatly enhanced by links to theresearch undertaken by academicstaff. The 2008 ResearchAssessment Exercise (RAE)

assessed 89% of Aberdeen’sresearch activity as being ofinternational quality and 55% aseither ‘world-leading’ or‘internationally excellent’.

Our Colleges and ResearchCentres have a broad-basedresearch platform, focusing onglobal issues including health,social organisation, environmentalsustainability and energy. Ourresearchers investigate thechallenges to modern life fromtechnological and scientificadvances, to questions ofphilosophy, economics and publicpolicy, and in doing so applyexpertise derived from addressinglocal, regional, and national issuesto develop multidisciplinary teamsto tackle global issues.

Administrative Structure

The University of Aberdeencomprises three Colleges: theCollege of Arts & Social Sciences,the College of Physical Sciences,and the College of Life Sciences &Medicine. There is also a centralUniversity administration.

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The Colleges, each run by a Vice-Principal who oversees thedelivery of the College Plan, arefurther divided into Schools. EachCollege has the freedom to developits practices within a framework ofpolicy guidance provided by theUniversity, but all work towardsthe University’s strategicdevelopment and aims outlined inthe University Strategic Plan.

Overview of Gaelic in theNorth-East of Scotland

History

Although often overlooked, theAberdeen area has long-standingconnections to the history andtraditions of Scottish Gaelic.Among the most important ofthese links is to the Book of Deer.Compiled at the Celtic Monasteryof Deer in Old Deer, Aberdeenshire,the Book is a tenth centurymanuscript (with twelfth centuryadditions) that provides a uniqueinsight into the early church,culture and society of Scotland,England, and Ireland during thisperiod. It contains some of the

oldest examples of Gaelic writingto have survived from MedievalScotland. Gaelic was also spokenin many parts of the North-East,including upper-Deeside.

Education

At all levels of education in thecity, Aberdeen is committed to theuse and acquisition of Gaelic. Thenursery group Cròileaganintroduces parents and children(aged 0-3) to Gaelic through song,play, and crafts. The GilcomstounPrimary School Gaelic Unit,established in 1991, providesGaelic medium education andcaters for both nursery and primarypupils. According to the mostrecent statistics on Gaelic mediumeducation provided by Bòrd naGàidhlig, Gilcomstoun PrimarySchool had seven pupils enrolled inGaelic pre-school in the academicyear 2010-11; at levels P1-7,twenty-nine students attended theGaelic medium unit. Secondarylevel Gaelic education is providedby Hazlehead Academy whichgives students the opportunity toundertake Standard Grade, Higher

Grade, and Advanced Highers inGaelic. In the academic year 2010-11, twenty-five students wereenrolled in Gaelic classes for fluentspeakers. One pupil was registeredfor a Gaelic learners’ course.

Language & Culture

The main communityorganisations assisting withlanguage acquisition and use inthe city are the Aberdeen CityGaelic Club (Club Gàidhlig ObarDheathain), Cròileagan, and TheParents’ Management Committee(Comann nam Pàrant, CnP). CnPorganises the afterschoolprogramme Sradagan, which runsextracurricular activities forschool-aged students involved inGaelic education. Aberdeen GaelicClub offers language tuition andweekend courses for all levels oflinguistic ability and culturalevents.

Gaelic cultural organisationsinclude the Aberdeen Gaelic Choir(Còisir Ghàidhlig Obar Dheathain)which facilitates the use of Gaelicthroughout Aberdeen and

8 Aberdeenshire and regularlycompetes in Gaelic songcompetitions and festivals. FèisObar Dheathain is part of a widernetwork of Gaelic arts festivals.Scottish Culture and TraditionsAssociation (SCAT), is anotherbody which offers courses inelements of Scottish Gaelic culturein Aberdeen. In the past, tuition inGaelic has been offered in additionto courses in music; this provisionis now offered by Aberdeen GaelicClub.

Census Data

Census figures show that thepopulation of Gaelic speakerswithin Aberdeen City andAberdeenshire council areasincreased steadily in the period to2001. Although still relatively smallin relation to the region’s totalpopulation, the figures areindicative of a wider trend towardsurbanisation of the Gaelic-speaking community, withgrowing populations living inAberdeen and other Scottish cities.

Within ten years (1991-2001), thenumber of persons in Aberdeenwith abilities in the language rosefrom 1,276 to 2,554. The totalnumber of Gaelic speakers alsorose by a quarter (1,134 to 1,420),which was the largest increase ofall council areas. Aberdeenshirehas also seen an increase in thenumber of residents claiming anability to read, write, or speakGaelic. In 1991, 992 residents hadsome use of Gaelic, and thisincreased to 1,088 in 2001.

These figures may, in part, reflectthe decision to survey students attheir term-time address, or theinclusion of a new census questionin 2001 that added the ability ofunderstanding Gaelic to thesurvey. An increased proportion ofGaelic speakers in Scotland’s citiesmay also correlate to migration.With the majority of incomingGaelic speakers coming from theHighland local authority, andAberdeen’s strong links to theHighlands and Islands, it is clearthat cities, such as Aberdeen, havean important role to play in

developing and supporting Gaelic.

The University’s Gaelic LanguagePlan, alongside that of AberdeenCity Council and any future Plans,will help to ensure that the regionplays its full part in themaintenance and revitalisation ofthe Gaelic language and culture.

Overview of the use andpromotion of Gaelic within the University’s operations

Background

The University’s Department ofCeltic, (which includes Gaelic),now part of the University’s Schoolof Language & Literature, wasformally established in 1916.Academics in the School areleading researchers in their fieldsand have significant links withGaelic stakeholders.

The University’s School ofEducation, integrated with theUniversity following a merger withNorthern College of Education in2001, can trace the provision ofinitial teacher education back to1873. It has long-standing linkswith a number of schools, localauthorities, and universities toprovide continued professionaldevelopment for teachers. TheSchool is one of the leadingproviders of Gaelic educationprogrammes, and its academicsare engaged in innovative researchthat informs policy and practice.

Courses in Gaelic

The University currently provides abroad range of courses relating toGaelic language, culture, literatureand Gaelic in education. Followingthe implementation of a majorCurriculum Reform, the institutionoffers further opportunities forstudents across mostundergraduate programmes tolearn the language through twoyears of Sustained Study. Thisaddition to degree programmesensures that students undertakecourses that expose them to awider array of academic subjectsin addition to those associatedwith their degree. One of the

University’s core activities inproviding Gaelic languageinstruction promotes Gaelicacquisition and adult learning: theUniversity’s Gaelic LanguagePolicy and Plan have these at theircore.

Gaelic for beginners is one of themost popular language coursesoffered at the University ofAberdeen, with an average of 60students enrolled annually in a firstyear beginners’ course (including alarge number of internationalstudents). Since 2007,approximately five students havegraduated annually with a degreein Gaelic. Many of the University’sGaelic graduates have enteredcareers in the media, localgovernment, Gaelic development,and education.

The University has made, andcontinues to make, significantcontributions to Initial TeacherEducation in both the primary andsecondary sectors, and toContinued ProfessionalDevelopment for Gaelic teachingpractitioners, as it seeks to addressthe national demand for Gaelicteachers by developingProfessional Graduate Diploma inEducation (PGDE) distancelearning programmes. It has alsodeveloped a new degree in Gaelicwith Education that is currentlyoffered in partnership with theUniversity of the Highlands andIslands.

The School of Language andLiterature established andcoordinated the University ofAberdeen’s first Gaelic SummerSchool in 2005 to provide Gaeliclearners with the opportunity topractise and develop theirlinguistic skills in a traditionalGaelic-speaking community.Recently the initiative hasdeveloped to include students atother Scottish universities, and hasbenefited from both internalsupport and the support of theScottish Funding Council and Bòrdna Gàidhlig.

The University’s Language Centrealso offers evening courses for

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adults that cater for all levels ofability. Students and staff areencouraged (through a smalldiscount) to enrol in these courses.

Events and CommunityActivities

The University organisesextracurricular activities availableto students and the wider public.The Celtic Society, one of theoldest societies at the University (c.1854), commonly organisescèilidhs and other social events.The Society was involved in theAberdeen University Students’Association’s Gaelic Motion,which encouraged greaterprovision for the Gaelic language.The Celtic Society has alsoassisted postgraduate researchersin Gaelic to organise a number ofcommunity projects funded byBòrd na Gàidhlig’s Taic FreumhanCoimhearsnachd Scheme from

2009-11. The projects supportedinclude Gaelic immersionweekends and The Gaelic ArtsProject, a series of murals withGaelic phrases designed bystudents from GilcomstounPrimary School, HazleheadAcademy, and the University ofAberdeen, that are permanentlydisplayed at Aberdeen RailwayStation.

Many Gaelic events have featuredin the University’s publicengagement programming. TheWord festival has, for example,seen the events including: acelebration of the poetry of SorleyMacLean, the launch of FinlayMacLeod’s novel Gormshuil anRìgh, and the first Aberdeenexhibition of An Leabhar Mòr.Running parallel to the main Wordprogramme, a children’s festivalhas also included well attendedGaelic-medium activities like

story-telling and sports.

Academic colleagues at theUniversity of Aberdeen also assistin coordinating conversationcircles for students and staff inorder to provide furtheropportunities to use Gaelic. Inrecent years, these events havebeen organised by students.

The North Atlantic FiddleConvention, linked to theUniversity’s Elphinstone Institute,includes Gaelic music in its eventsin the UK and abroad. TheConvention combines a musicfestival with an academicconference that focuses on culturalexchange.

Research and Publications

The University of Aberdeen is theco-lead institution in the SoillseResearch Network that was

10 established to provide a much enhancedresearch capacity to inform public policytowards the maintenance and revitalisationof Gaelic language and culture. TheUniversity also publishes the leading journalin the field: Scottish Gaelic Studies.

The University is keen to collaborate withexternal members of the Gaelic communityand in 2000 established the biennial Gaelicconference Rannsachadh na Gàidhlig, whichwas held in Aberdeen again in 2010. Inaddition, it regularly holds a post-graduateconference at which research relating to,and within the field of Gaelic language, isregularly presented.

The University also supports researchthrough the medium of Gaelic. In addition toits involvement in various academicconferences where research is commonlypresented in the language, Gaelicundergraduate and postgraduate studentsmay submit their dissertations or theses inthe language.

The University’s Research Institute of Irishand Scottish Studies also supports Gaelic.The Institute publishes a literary magazine,Causeway / Cabhsair, which frequentlyincludes the poetry and short stories ofestablished and developing Gaelic writers.

The University has a long history of researchinto Gaelic culture and language, with manydistinguished Gaelic scholars having passedthrough as students or staff. Professor JohnStuart Blackie studied at the University inthe 1820s and was appointed Chair inHumanities in the 1830s. In the first half ofthe twentieth century, the late ProfessorDerick S. Thomson (Ruaraidh MacThòmais)and Iain Crichton Smith (Iain Mac a’Ghobhainn) studied at the University;Thomson later became the Head of theUniversity’s Department of Celtic in 1956. Inmore recent years, the renowned Gaelicscholar and poet Professor Donald MacAulaywas Reader in Celtic, and Professor DonaldMeek held the first Chair in Celtic.

There are currently 3.75 FTE members ofGaelic teaching staff in the School ofLanguage & Literature, in addition to a 0.6FTE Gaelic Lecturer in the School ofEducation. The University’s GaelicDevelopment & Policy Officer supportsGaelic development across the institution at0.5 FTE. Staff in these positions operatebilingually, regularly using Gaelic tocommunicate with students and othermembers of staff.

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CHAPTER 2Core Commitments

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CHAPTER 2Core Commitments

In its statutory Guidance on theDevelopment of Gaelic LanguagePlans, Bòrd na Gàidhlig notes thatcreating the right environment forthe use of Gaelic in public life isone of the key components oflanguage regeneration.

The Bòrd has identified four coreareas of service delivery that itwishes public bodies to addresswhen preparing Gaelic LanguagePlans:

Identity: corporate identity, signage

Communications: reception, telephone, mail/e-mail,forms, public meetings, complaints procedures

Publications: public relations, media, printedmaterial, websites, exhibitions

Staffing: training, language learning,recruitment, advertising

This section of the Plan details theUniversity of Aberdeen’s corecommitments in relation to the

Bòrd’s Guidance on Developmentof Gaelic Language Plans.

Implementation of theScottish Government’sStrategic Objectives

As part of our commitment to thedevelopment of a Gaelic LanguagePlan, the University of Aberdeenrecognises that our GaelicLanguage Plan must also reflectthe Strategic Objectivesestablished by The ScottishGovernment.

In preparing our Gaelic LanguagePlan we have considered how thecommitments we have made assistin the implementation of theseStrategic Objectives. Eachcommitment indicates which ofthe following Strategic Objectiveswill be assisted by theirimplementation.

The Strategic Objectives are linkedto commitments through theinclusion of the relevant numberfrom the list below.

1 Wealthier & Fairer: Theseobjectives relate to the high-level national targets focussingon growth, productivity andparticipation. Among its goalsinclude the provision of high-

quality public services whichare reflective of thecommunity’s needs, and thedesire to have a fair inclusivenational identity.

2 Smarter: Included in the‘smarter’ objectives is thecommitment to ensure that thepopulation is better educatedand renowned for research andinnovation.

3 Healthier: This objectiveincludes ambitions that focuson providing the bestopportunities for children tosucceed, and helping residentsto live longer, healthier lives.

4 Safer & Stronger: Populationand solidarity are some of thehigh-level national targetsassociated with this StrategicObjective. Among its goalsinclude the necessity for strong,responsible communities thatstrive to reduce crime.

5 Greener: This objective relatesto sustainability. Among itsgoals includes the desire toprotect and enhance theenvironment for futuregenerations, and the reductionof local and global impact ofconsumption and production.

13Section 1 – Identity

Rationale: The presence of Gaelic in the corporate identity and signs of a public body greatly enhances thevisibility of the language, increases its status and makes an important statement about how Gaelic is valued andhow it is given recognition. Developing the use of Gaelic through signage can also enrich the vocabulary ofGaelic users, raise public awareness of the language and contribute to its development.

The University of Aberdeen recognises the importance of extending the visibility of Gaelic andenhancing its status through inclusion in aspects of the corporate identity.

Corporate Identity

Current Practice: Gaelic does not currently feature in any major aspect of corporate identity. We have no guidance forthe usage of Gaelic as part of the corporate identity (i.e. on the University homepage, in email disclaimers or onletterheads).

Development AreasLogo

Website

Email Disclaimer

Email Addresses

Email Signatures

Letterheads

Business Cards

TargetsWe will use a Gaelic-version of our logo on Gaelic-medium and bilingual materials, with equal respectgiven to English and Gaelic. Further, we will developpolicy guidelines, based upon the principle of equalrespect, for the appropriate use of the Gaelic logothroughout the University.

As part of any future corporate rebranding exercise, wewill consider the adoption of a bilingual logo, which willdemonstrate equal respect for English and Gaelic, as partof the corporate identity. Any future decision to adopt abilingual logo will be informed by appropriate researchinto the impact of bilingual identity oninternationalisation and recruitment.

We will identify a small number of ‘key information’pages for translation into Gaelic e.g. ‘About Us’.

We will also commit to the provision of bilingual pageson Gaelic courses in the Schools of Education, andLanguage & Literature.

[Note: School of Education website already has bilingualcontent.]

We will also investigate the provision of appropriatestatic content to be made available in Gaelic on theUniversity’s homepage. The amount of static contentavailable in Gaelic will increase over the life of the Plan,and will demonstrate equal respect for English andGaelic.

We will develop a Gaelic version of the standardinstitutional email disclaimer, and render the standardinstitutional email disclaimer bilingual.

We will provide staff with the option to request a linkedemail account with a Gaelic alias, and will activelyencourage staff to take up this option.

We will provide staff with an approved Gaelic version ofthe University address.

We will also provide translations of the text used ininstitutional promotional signatures and a bilingual outof office message.

We will actively encourage staff to take up this provisionthrough promotion of our Gaelic Language Plan.

We will provide an approved Gaelic version of theUniversity letterhead, develop guidelines for its usebased upon the principle of equal respect, andencourage staff to use it through promotion of the GaelicLanguage Plan.

We will provide an approved template for the productionof bilingual Gaelic-English business cards based uponthe principle of equal respect.

[Note: the University already provides templates for theproduction of bilingual business cards in Arabic andChinese which demonstrate equal respect for thelanguages by using a double-sided template.]

Lead Section MarketingCommunicationsDITPPG

PPGCommunicationsSchool of EducationSchool of Language & Literature

DIT

DIT

MarketingCommunications

MarketingCommunications

External Affairs

TimescaleSeptember 2013

September 2013

March 2013

March 2013

March 2013

September 2013

September 2013

Relevant National Outcomes assisted: 1

14 Signage

Current Practice: Although there is some Gaelic signage on campus, there is no consistent approach to the usage ofsuch signage and no policy for the use of Gaelic on campus signage.

Development Areas

Campus Signage

Building Signage

AUSA Signage

Targets

We will identify a limited number of main campus signsto supplement with Gaelic content e.g. at major campusentry points.

We will develop policy guidance, based upon theprinciple of equal respect for English and Gaelic, for theprovision of appropriate bilingual campus and buildingsignage.

Replacement or renewal will be on a case-by-case basis.

We will identify appropriate building signage tosupplement and / or replace.

Replacement or renewal will be on a case-by-case basis.

We will encourage and support the Aberdeen UniversityStudents’ Association in implementing internal andexternal bilingual signage in line with its 2010 GaelicMotion.

Lead Section

Estates

Marketing

Estates

Marketing

PPG

TimescaleInitial signs to bein place byDecember 2013

Guidance bySeptember 2013

First signs to be inplace byDecember 2013

Autumn 2012 andbeyond

[Signs installed inAutumn 2012]


15Section 2 – Communications

Rationale: The use of Gaelic at the initial point of contact that members of the public have with a public bodyincreases the visible and audible presence of the language, and contributes to the sense that the use of Gaelic ispossible and welcome. In addition to raising the profile of the language, it also creates opportunities for itspractical use and encourages members of the public to use Gaelic in subsequent dealings with the public body.

The use of Gaelic in interactions with the authority by mail, e-mail and by telephone is important in creatingpractical opportunities for the use of the language, and in contributing to the sense that its use is possible andwelcome. The presence of Gaelic in a wide range of bilingual and Gaelic-only forms can also greatly enhance thevisibility and prestige of the language. The preparation of Gaelic versions of forms, applications and similardocuments can also assist in expanding the range of Gaelic terminology and the awareness of the Gaelic-speaking public of such terminology, thus helping the development of the language itself.

The University of Aberdeen recognises the importance of creating opportunities for the use ofGaelic in a wide range of everyday situations and is committed to increasing its level of provisionin this area. We recognise, however, that such provision will by necessity be proportionate. In allGaelic communications, the University will adhere to guidance in Gaelic OrthographicalConventions and Ainmean-Àite na h-Alba.

Gaelic Queries

Current Practice: There is no current policy, procedure or provision for responding to Gaelic queries, be they in person,by email or by telephone.

Development Areas

Telephone Queries

Email Queries

Reception

Formal Correspondence

Forms

Public Meetings

Complaints Procedures

TargetsWe will provide reception staff and School Offices with alist of Gaelic speakers who can assist in the handling ofany Gaelic language enquiries and will establish aprotocol for the handling of Gaelic language queries.

Where formal institutional correspondence (i.e. to thePrincipal, University Secretary or Senior Vice-Principal) isreceived in Gaelic, we will acknowledge receipt in Gaelicand endeavour to provide a detailed response in Gaelic.The response time for formal letters in Gaelic will be thesame as that for formal letters received in English.

We will formalise the practice of providing the furtherparticulars and person specification information in Gaelicfor posts where Gaelic language is a requirement (as setout in Section 4).

We will also conduct an audit of institutional forms toidentify high profile forms which may be renderedbilingual. The forms which this audit identifies will beproduced in a way that ensures equal respect for Gaelicand English, and they will be actively offered.

We will advocate and formally propose the inclusion of aGaelic language element in our graduation ceremonies.

We will increase the number of events related to Gaelicstudies in our programme of events.

We will also introduce bilingual or Gaelic-relatedexhibitions in our Programme of Events.

Where a formal complaint is made in Gaelic, we willprovide an initial acknowledgement in Gaelic. Theresponse time will be in accordance with standardpractice for complaints made in English.

Lead SectionPPG

Communications

Marketing

PPG

Communications

HR

PPG

Registry

PPG

Communications

Special Collections

Events and ProgrammingGroup

PPG

TimescaleApril 2013

Immediately

March 2013

February 2014

July 2013ceremonies

A relevantexhibition to beheld by 2017

Immediately


16 Section 3 – Publications

Rationale: The use of Gaelic in a range of printed material can assist Gaelic development in a variety of ways. Ithelps increase the visibility of the language, it enhances Gaelic’s status by being used in high profilepublications, and it can help develop new and enhance existing terminology. The use of Gaelic in the mediahelps demonstrate a public organisation’s commitment to making important information available through themedium of Gaelic, as well as enhancing the visibility and status of the language. As more people accessinformation about public bodies through their websites, making provision for the use of Gaelic can significantlyenhance the status and visibility of the language.

The University of Aberdeen is committed to increasing the use of Gaelic in its publiccommunications, in particular where the subject matter is of most interest to the general public orrelates specifically to Gaelic issues.

Public Relations and Media

Current Practice: None of our press releases, publications or institutional marketing materials are currently produced in Gaelic.

Development Areas

Press Releases

Institutional Marketing

Publications

Website

Targets

We will produce bilingual press releases where:> content covers geographical areas where there is local Gaelic media to cover the story

OR> a Gaelic-speaker can be identified to discuss the subject in Gaelic

We will also revise our press distribution lists to includeGaelic-media; for example, all press releases will bedistributed to BBC Alba.

We will establish, as part of our database of academicexperts, a database of Gaelic-speaking experts. [seetraining below] and will continue to provide a Gaelic-speaker when required for media interview.

We will use internal publications (e.g. Staff News) topromote the GLP and the work of the GLPAG.

We will continue to interview Gaelic graduates as part ofour coverage of graduation ceremonies. We will alsoincrease the volume and use of this coverage in internalpublications and in supporting the promotion of otherGaelic language initiatives in the Plan.

We will provide bilingual promotional materials for all ofour programmes in Gaelic and Initial Teacher Educationwith Gaelic. Where appropriate, these materials willhighlight the awards, scholarships and grants availablefor undergraduate and postgraduate students.

We will include a range of bilingual marketing materialsto accompany recruitment visits in Scotland. Thematerials will demonstrate equal respect for Gaelic andEnglish.

We will undertake an audit of major institutionalpublications (e.g. prospectus) and develop a policy, basedupon equal respect for English and Gaelic, for theinclusion of Gaelic in institutional publications.

We will encourage and assist the student body toprovide regular Gaelic language features in the studentnewspaper Gaudie and other student publications.

We will provide bilingual web pages for the GaelicLanguage Plan and from which to promote awareness ofthe GLPAG.

We will use these pages as the focus for all Gaelic policyrelated information.

Lead Section

Communications

PPG

Marketing

Student Recruitment

CASS

PPG

AUSA

PPG

Timescale

June 2013

Distribution list byOctober 2012[completed]

BBC Alba releasesto begin by March2013

Database to beproduced by April2013

Baseline forinternal coverage=2012/13; increaseover life of Plan

December 2013

Audit to beundertaken bySpring 2013; Policyin place byDecember 2013

Immediately

Immediately;thereafter to beupdated quarterlyor as appropriate


17Section 4 – Staffing

Rationale: In order to deliver services through the medium of Gaelic, it is necessary to develop the requisite jobskills and language skills of staff. The provision of language learning for staff helps promote adult Gaelic learningand promotes Gaelic as a useful skill in the workplace. The identification of jobs in which Gaelic is a designatedskill 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 Gaelicusers have an important role to play within a public organisation. Whatever the level of Gaelic skills required it isimportant that public bodies ensure that Gaelic is a genuine occupational requirement. Authorities should adoptand apply objective criteria to ensure appointments are made in each case on a fair and consistent basis, andreflect the identified skills needs of the post.

The University of Aberdeen recognises the importance of providing opportunities for staff to learnGaelic as part of their personal and professional development. We recognise the need to identifysituations in which the use of Gaelic is essential or desirable. The University of Aberdeen alsorecognises the importance of enabling staff to develop their Gaelic skills if they wish to do so.

Staff Development

Current Practice: The University currently has a formal practice for the provision of training or language acquisition forstaff. This practice covers all languages and courses offered, including Gaelic. Staff members can undertake courses,usually with costs met by the University, with the agreement of their Head of School

Development Areas

Training

Language Learning

Targets

It is impractical to commit to the provision of allcentralised training in Gaelic. However, we will identifythe training required to promote the development of ourGaelic-speaking staff (e.g. we will provide media trainingfor Gaelic-speaking staff) [see above], and will, as set outbelow, enhance promotion of the freely available Gaeliclanguage courses for staff. Priority for training will begiven to any member of staff expressing an interest orability in Gaelic as identified through the Gaeliclanguage staff audit.

We will also provide biannual Gaelic awareness seminarfor staff.

We will improve promotion of opportunities for all staff toundertake Gaelic language courses (which are alreadyfreely available to staff) and will encourage staff to takeadvantage of these to acquire or gain further proficiencyin the language. We will ensure that priority is given toany reception or telephone desk staff.

We will identify, in collaboration with other public sectororganisations, the demand for language learning amongour staff and will in turn work other agencies, includingGaelic language tuition organisations, to address thatdemand.

We will undertake a full audit of the level of Gaeliclanguage skills among University staff through surveys.

We will work with the Student Association (AUSA) toundertake a linguistic audit with students. (See alsoChapter 3 Development Area: Student Support).

Lead Section

HR

Colleges

Communications

Gaelic Agencies

CASS

Language Centre

Gaelic Agencies

Aberdeen City Council

PPG with DIT

PPG with DITRegistryAUSA

TimescaleJune 2013

November 2012and beyond [Firstsession held inNovember 2012]

Autumn 2012[Communicationsbegan in Autumn2012]

Where demandexists, new jointprovision from2014.

March 2013;thereafter everytwo years

May 2013;thereafter annually

Relevant National Outcomes assisted: 1, 2

The University of Aberdeen recognises that Gaelic is an integral part

of Scotland’s heritage, national identity, and cultural life

18 Recruitment & Advertising

Current Practice: No current policy or procedure on the handling of applications in Gaelic.

Development Areas

Advertising

Recruitment

Targets

All posts where Gaelic language is an essentialrequirement will be advertised bilingually. Theadvertisement will include notice of the University’sGaelic Language Plan which will notify applicants thatthey may submit queries about the post in Gaelic.Applicants will also be informed that bilingual CVs maybe submitted with applications.

Where Gaelic is a desirable element, clear reference tothis will be included in the advertisement.

We will also develop criteria to be used whendetermining posts as Gaelic-essential or desirable.

All posts where Gaelic language is an essentialrequirement will include a Gaelic-speaker on theinterview panel.

[Note: This provision is common practice at theUniversity, but will be formalised.]

Lead Section

HR

HR

Timescale

March 2013

March 2013

Immediately


19

CHAPTER 3Policy Implications for Gaelic:

Implementation of the National Plan for Gaelic

20 CHAPTER 3

Policy Implications for Gaelic: Implementation ofthe National Plan for Gaelic

Policy implications for Gaelic

The University of Aberdeenrecognises that the various priorityareas identified in the National Planfor Gaelic will be primarilyimplemented through our GaelicLanguage Plan, but thatopportunities will arise to promoteand develop the language throughexisting policy measures.

Alongside our core commitmentsand those made below, theUniversity will examine currentpolicy commitments to identify areaswhere Gaelic can be pro-activelyincorporated and the priorities of theNational Plan for Gaelic addressedthrough additional methods. We seethis development as correspondingto the normalisation principle whichaims to include Gaelic as aneveryday part of life in Scotland.

In the formation, renewal andmonitoring of policies, the Universitywill ensure that the impacts onGaelic will be in line with theNational Plan for Gaelic.

Overview and commitment tothe National Plan for Gaelic

The National Gaelic Language Planidentifies four interlinking aspects oflanguage development which needto be addressed, and within themsets out a number of priority actionareas.

The University of Aberdeen iscommitted to doing its part tosupport the implementation of theNational Plan for Gaelic.

In this section we set out ourrationale under each of the fouraspects and in the associated tablewe provide examples of how weintend to achieve those aims:

1. Language Acquisition

The National Plan for Gaelic aims toincrease the number of Gaelicspeakers by ensuring the language istransferred within families and bysecuring effective opportunities forlearning Gaelic, through;

> increasing the use and transmission of Gaelic in the home> increasing the number of children acquiring Gaelic in the school> increasing the uptake and availability of Gaelic-medium education> increasing the number of adult Gaelic learners progressing to fluency.

The University of Aberdeenrecognises that a sustainable futurefor Gaelic requires more people tolearn the language and thatattention requires to be focused onthe home, education and adultlearning as the key means ofachieving this.

2. Language Usage

Encouraging greater use of Gaelic,providing opportunities to use thelanguage, and promoting access toGaelic forms of expression, through;

> increasing the use of Gaelic in communities> increasing the use of Gaelic across education sectors and places of work> increasing the presence of Gaelic in the media> increasing the promotion of Gaelic in the arts> increasing the profile of Gaelic in the tourism, heritage and recreation sectors.

The University of Aberdeenrecognises that creating asustainable future for Gaelic requiresnot only increasing the number ofpeople able to speak the language,but increasing actual usage. Werecognise the importance ofenabling more people to use Gaelicas their preferred and normal modeof communication in an increasinglywide range of daily activities.

3. Language Status

Increasing the visibility andaudibility of Gaelic, enhancing itsrecognition and creating a positiveimage for Gaelic in Scottish publiclife, through;

> increasing the number of bodies preparing Gaelic Language Plans> increasing the profile and prestige of Gaelic> increasing the visibility and recognition of Gaelic.

The University of Aberdeenrecognises that the status of alanguage is affected by its presencein the daily environment and theextent to which it is used, valuedand perceived to be valued by thoseinstitutions that play an importantrole in our daily lives.

4. Language Corpus

Strengthening the relevance andconsistency of Gaelic and promotingresearch into the language, through;

> increasing the relevance and consistency of the Gaelic language> increasing the quality and accessibility of Gaelic translations> increasing the availability of accurate research information.

The University of Aberdeenrecognises the need to strengthenthe relevance and consistency ofGaelic, the importance of facilitatingtranslation services and to promoteresearch into the language. It hasestablished a Gaelic operationalbudget which will support thetranslation of large or high-profiledocuments, whilst smaller-scale orless formal documents will betranslated in house by the GaelicDevelopment & Policy Officer.

In order to contribute to the deliveryof these wide-ranging commitments,we will take the following steps tohelp create a supportiveenvironment in which GaelicLanguage Acquisition, Usage, Statusand Corpus can all be enhanced andby so doing to support Gaelic andGaelic speakers.

21CURRICULUM AND POLICY COMMITMENTS

ActionPublic Engagement with Research/UniversityEvents: We will work, through our public engagementprogramme, to identify appropriate research areas forpublic discussion relating to Gaelic Studies or theUniversity’s Gaelic Language Plan.

These will build on existing Gaelic themes withinUniversity research and events, will benefit from thethematic and geographic expansions of our othercommunity programmes, and will help bring awarenessof our Gaelic language commitments to a wideraudience.

Supports: Status

Training: We will work within the Soillse ResearchNetwork to explore the development of postgraduatetraining in Language Planning and Policy.

Supports: Status

Support: We will encourage and enable colleagues toundertake research leave.

Supports: Corpus, Status

Staff Levels & Excellence in Research: We willexplore the possibility of reintroducing a senior positionwithin Gaelic in order to assist career progression,strengthen the University’s status and profile in Gaelicresearch, and diversify the courses available in this field.

We will also commit to maintaining staff levels to deliverhigh-quality research and instruction across the fields ofGaelic and Education, and increase staff levels in linewith demand.

Supports: Acquisition, Corpus, Status

Funding: We will actively seek funding to promote andenable research in Gaelic education, and activelyencourage research in Gaelic medium and Gaeliclearners’ education.

Supports: Acquisition

Research: Through our participation in the SoillseResearch Network, we will address the need for researchinto current Gaelic policies which will influence futureimplementation and practice.

Supports: Acquisition, Corpus, Status, Usage

Assessment: We will formalise the practice of allowingstudents to present their research in Gaelic wherepossible.

Supports: Usage

TargetsEmbed discussion ofGaelic and its role in thecommunity, and highlightrelevant research areas,through our publicengagement programme.

There may also bepotential, throughpartnership, to further ourreach into remote andrural communities.

Increase the availability oflanguage planning andpolicy education bycollaborating withnetwork partners tointroduce a specialiseddegree in this subject.

Maintain the level ofresearch output bycontinuing to assist staffwith research grantapplications and othersupport, where possible.

Investigate fundingoptions, includingthrough the University’sinternational scholarscampaign, with a view toreintroducing the positionof Chair of Gaelic(formerly Chair of Celtic).

Maintain staff levels inGaelic and Education inorder to deliver necessarycourses andcommitments with regardto Gaelic in line withdemand.

Facilitate research inGaelic education.

Investigate Gaelic policyand practice with theview to inform futurepublic policy andpractice.

Formalise and promotethis option for studentsstudying in theDepartment of Gaelic.

Consider the widerviability and applicabilityof this option in otheracademic areas.

Lead SectionUniversity AdvisoryGroup On PublicEngagement

Communications

School of Language &Literature

CASS

CASS

Development Trust

School of Education

School of Language & Literature

School of Language & Literature

TimescaleProgramme of events for2013 and beyond

Programme available by2017 subject toagreement andcommitment by otherpartner organisations

Immediately

Re-establish this postonce suitable funding isconfirmed

Annual Audit of Gaelicstaff / student numbersin these departmentsbeginning in 2012/13

Annually beginningAcademic Year 2012/13

Throughout the life ofthe Soillse Network

June 2013 (Gaelic)

Development Area: Postgraduate / Research Activity

The University of Aberdeen recognises that a sustainable future

for Gaelic requires more people to learn the language

22

ActionSustained Study: We will increase the promotion ofGaelic language learning opportunities available as partof our Curriculum Reform process with the aim ofincreasing student numbers on Gaelic courses.

We will develop promotional material to highlight Gaelicas an option for students of all linguistic abilities, andpromote the career options available to them throughthis study, with a particular focus on teaching.Information about Gaelic as a Sustained Study optionwill also be provided to Advisers of Studies.


Gaelic for Medical Students: We will explore theintroduction of additional Gaelic options for MedicalHumanities students, including a Gaelic cultural option,and the exploration of a new six-week Gaelic course forlearners.


Recruitment to Gaelic Courses: We will work withStudent Recruitment to increase the number of studentsenrolled in Gaelic courses through active promotion ofGaelic options.

We will work with schools throughout the North-East ofScotland and the Highlands and Islands to deliver GaelicOpen Days that will promote Gaelic Studies and thecareer opportunities available.

We will also ensure that the University is represented atkey Gaelic events and festivals to promote its Gaelicdegrees and courses.


TargetsIncrease annually thenumbers enrolled inGaelic through SustainedStudy through widerpromotion of theopportunity at Open Daysand Freshers’ Week.

Develop Gaelic throughSustained Studyinformation to bedistributed to Advisers ofStudies.

Identify other courses tooffer to MedicalHumanities students fromthe existing catalogue ofcourses; explore fundingoptions for a Gaelicbeginners’ course forMedical Humanitiesstudents.

We will aim to increaserecruitment to Gaeliclanguage coursesannually by holdingOpen Day seminars withsecondary schools and byattending relevant Gaelicevents and festivals (e.g.The Royal National Mòd).

Lead SectionCASS

Registry

CASS

CASS

Careers

Student Recruitment

TimescaleBaseline = 2011/12Increase by 5% annuallyduring the life of the Plan

Academic Year 2013/14

Additional CultureCourse advertised inMay 2013

Introduce Gaelic forbeginners’ course oncefunding is obtained

Baseline = 2011/12Improve by 5% annuallyduring the life of the Plan

Development Area: Undergraduate Teaching

23

Action

Gaelic Language Activities:We will improve theprovision of Gaelic language activities, such as Gaelicconversation circles, across the institution and inAberdeen through the development of additional, wellco-ordinated activities with the cooperation of otherGaelic agencies and local interest groups.

We will also improve the promotion of these activitiesthrough internal communications, and through our workwith local interest groups.

Supports: Usage

Gaelic Summer School: As part of the development ofour Gaelic language commitments, we will explore thedevelopment of a weeklong summer school for students,staff, and the wider public. This school will be modelledon the National Summer School for Gaelic, which isoffered to students doing a degree in Gaelic, but willwiden the opportunities for others learning Gaelic toparticipate in a similar event.

Supports: Acquisition, Usage

Immersion Weekends: We will improve the promotionof these events by working with other local groups andGaelic agencies with the intention to attract newparticipants. The collaboration will ensure that there issufficient demand for these events to be run annually.

Supports: Usage

Staff Learning:We will raise staff awareness ofopportunities to acquire or develop Gaelic languageskills.

We will develop a strategy to offer Gaelic courses as partof staff Continuing Personal Development (CPD).

[Note: See also Section 4.]


Targets

To increase participationin these events.

Establish a workinggroup responsible for theorganisation andexploring funding optionsfor this initiative.

Propose to the AberdeenGaelic EducationAdvisory Group that thisevent is organised andrun by the AGEAG toensure that it is anAberdeen-wide event.

Increase the number ofstaff undertaking suchcourses

Lead Section

Language Centre


PPG

Events

Communications

Gaelic agencies


Aberdeenshire Council


PPG

Gaelic Agencies


Other institutions

Aberdeen GaelicEducation AdvisoryGroup

Colleges

Language Centre

HR

Communications

Timescale

Baseline 2011/12

Improve by 5% annuallyduring the life of the Plan

Working Group: May 2013

Initiative to be offeredsubject to funding

September 2013

Baseline: 2011/12

Improve enrolmentannually by 5% duringthe life of the Plan

Gaelic in CPD availablein August 2014.

Development Area: Adult Learning / Widening Participation

Action

Initial Teacher Education:We will monitor the uptakeof places on Gaelic and education degrees.

We will promote teaching opportunities in our schoolOpen Days for Gaelic and will provide literature aboutcareers in teaching Gaelic.


Education students:We will actively promote Gaelicand language education in the curriculum to allincoming students by including a seminar on minoritylanguages in education during their initial introductionseminars.

Supports: Acquisition, Status

CPD with Gaelic: We will undertake an audit of theexisting CPD provision across Scotland and promote ourlinks with other Universities, such as UHI, to increaseintake on these courses.

We will actively promote teaching opportunities inGaelic for Learners in the Primary School (GLPS) toindividuals who are not comfortable or able to considerteaching in Gaelic medium education.


Targets

Monitor the intake forthese places and developcareers promotionalmaterial to be used inOpen Days and otherrelative events, with theview to increase intakeon Gaelic teachingcourses.

Increase awarenessabout education andliteracy with Gaelic withregard to the Curriculumfor Excellence.

Increase the number ofteachers enrolled in CPDcourses.

Lead Section

School of Education

Careers

Student Recruitment

School of Education

School of Education

UHI

Timescale

First materials to bedeveloped for Spring2013 and added tothereafter

Annual monitoring ofGaelic education placesaccepted

Beginning August 2012

[First session held inJanuary 2013]

Audit by January 2014

Baseline: 2013

Increase intake by 5%per annum thereafterduring the life of the Plan

Development Area: Initial Teacher Education / Gaelic Language Education

We are delighted to be one of only two universities in Scotland to

offer primary and secondary teacher education provision in Gaelic

24

ActionStudent Advice: We will establish the demand for offeringincoming students the opportunity to have a Gaelic-speakingAdvisor of Studies and / or Personal Tutor, and create a policyfor this service.

[Note: this already happens informally but could it be rolledout more widely]

Supports: Status, Usage

AUSA: We will encourage and support AUSA in draftingand implementing its Gaelic Language Plan in line with its2010 Gaelic Motion.

Supports: Acquisition, Corpus, Status, Usage

Identifying Gaelic Speaking Applicants: We willinvestigate how to gather information from applicants as totheir linguistic ability. This is a pre-requisite for the deliveryof any additional support for incoming Gaelic speakingstudents and is, therefore, a priority.

Supports: Usage

Gaelic Awards: We will introduce a Gaelic STAR award aspart of our existing institutional scheme which recognisesthe development of skills and attributes outside of theclassroom.

Supports: Status

Fresher Induction: We will improve awareness ofinstitutional Gaelic language commitments across thestudent population with support from Gaelic agencies.

Supports: Acquisition, Status, Usage

Support for Incoming Gaelic Speakers: We will ensurethat all students who have declared Gaelic ability (orwillingness to learn) are provided with additional bilingualcontent in their Freshers’ Welcome Pack. This will includerelevant information on Gaelic (e.g. Gaelic language webresources; courses available and other learning opportunities;extra-curricular activities; University societies and externalagencies).


Accommodation: We will develop a policy to offerstudents living in University accommodation the opportunityto request that they reside alongside other Gaelic languagespeakers in Halls of residence.

We will also explore the introduction of a Gaelic ResidentialScheme, similar to that offered at the University of Glasgow,where students receive discounted accommodation in returnfor undertaking Gaelic ambassadorial roles for the University.


Gaelic Careers: We will advertise Gaelic posts to allstudents via our online portal.

We will improve the promotion of Gaelic careers schemessuch as Greis Gnìomhachais and Sgeama Ceumnachaidh byhighlighting these in Careers services information.

We will ensure that Gaelic careers information, as developedby other Gaelic agencies, is available at the Careers office. Aspart of our commitment to increase recruitment to Gaeliccourses, we will also add to the existing literature on Gaeliccareers with bilingual Institution specific information (seeUndergraduate Teaching section).


Gaelic Common Room: Where space and timetablingpermits, we will provide a dedicated ‘Gaelic’ languagecommon room on campus for staff and students.

Details of the venue (or its Gaelic-hours) will be promotedthrough internal communications.

Supports: Usage

TargetsShort-term target is toimplement this for studentsin Gaelic or Initial TeacherEducation with Gaelic.

Long-term target is to rollthis out to students in anydiscipline where possible.

Assist AUSA in thedevelopment and deliveryof its GLP

Introduce a procedure thatallows us to gather thisinformation prior to astudent embarking on theirdegree programme.

Introduce a Gaelic STARaward.

All students to receive, aspart of induction, a bilingualstatement from theUniversity outlining its Gaeliclanguage commitments andinformation about studyingGaelic at the University intheir information packs.

The inclusion ofsubstantially enhancedGaelic language content aspart of induction packs.

The introduction of thisarrangement.

The introduction of thisarrangement.

The development ofappropriate careersmaterials.

Provide a Gaelic –speakingarea for staff and studentsto use for Gaelic activities(e.g. conversation hour).

Lead SectionAcademic AffairsSchool of Language &LiteratureSchool of Education

Academic Affairs

PPG

Academic Affairs

Student Recruitment andAdmissions

AUSA

Careers

Student Affairs

Gaelic Agencies

AUSA

Student Recruitment andAdmissions

Student Affairs

Student Affairs

Student Recruitment

Careers

CASS / School of Language& Literature

TimescaleSeptember 2013

September 2014

June 2012 and beyond[AUSA bilingual signageinstalled in Autumn 2012]

June 2013

Autumn 2014

September 2013;thereafter annually

September 2014

September 2015

Information on careersmade available by March2013

Schemes advertisedannually (next round 2013)

Development of additionalbilingual materials byDecember 2013

September 2013

Development Area: Student Support

25

Action

Understanding the Internal Community: We willundertake a survey of staff and student attitudes towardsand linguistic ability in and desire to learn Gaelic.


Activity Audit:We will undertake a full audit of currentGaelic activity including numbers and categories ofparticipants (e.g. staff, student, public) on languagecourses; availability of Gaelic language materials; listingof extra-curricular Gaelic activities and outreach events;University representation on external Gaelic bodies. Theresults of this audit will form the baseline figures againstwhich to gauge the success of other commitments.


Education Co-ordination: We will work witheducation providers (e.g. Gilcomstoun Primary Schooland Hazlehead Academy) to provide a seamlessapproach to Gaelic medium education. A Gaelic StudiesOpen Day will showcase the opportunity for Gaeliclanguage instruction at all levels of education inAberdeen.

We will aim to maximise the impact of this event by, forexample, offering careers advice and working with otherpartners to demonstrate the opportunities for students touse Gaelic on campus and across Aberdeen.


Civic Facilitation:We will participate in the effort toreconfigure and re-energise Aberdeen’s GaelicEducation Advisory Group, and ensure that its remit andmembership reflects the wider concerns of the city inline with Gaelic Language Planning.

Among the group’s first tasks will be the production of aco-ordinated timetable of events across the region.


Sector Collaboration:We will work in close co-operation with other Universities involved in GaelicPlanning to ensure that all opportunities are taken tosupport the development of cross-sector Gaelic languageinitiatives and to secure consistency across languageusage.

Supports: Corpus

Targets

Undertake institutionalsurvey.

Follow-up surveyconducted for staff andstudents.

Report on these activitiesannually through GLPAGto UMG.

Introduce a joint GaelicStudies Open Day andcreate appropriatepromotional andrecruitment materials.

Encourage / facilitatecivic discussion (sharingresponsibility withAberdeen City Council).

Offer to host regularmeetings (Quarterly).

Establish a sector wideGaelic LanguagePlanning Group.

Lead Section

PPG with DITAUSA

PPG with DITAUSA

PPG

Gaelic EducationAdvisory Group(Aberdeen)

PPG with

Gilcomstoun Primary

Hazlehead Academy



Aberdeen GaelicEducation AdvisoryGroup

+


Student Recruitment

Careers

PPG with



PPG with

Universities

SFC

Timescale

Academic Year 2012/13

Every Two Years (staff) /annually (students)

February 2013

First materials to beavailable by April 2013and thereafter added toannually

First Gaelic StudiesOpen Day to run byDecember 2013.

Work with partners to re-establish Advisory Groupby March 2013

First co-ordinatedtimetable to be producedby September 2013

Establish formal workinggroup by Spring 2013

Development Area: Community Involvement

26

27

CHAPTER 4Implementation

and Monitoring

28 CHAPTER 3

Implementation and Monitoring

Timetable

This Gaelic Language Plan willremain in force for a period of 5years from its date of approval oruntil a new Plan is put in place.

In Chapter 2 – Core Commitmentsand Chapter 3 – PolicyImplications for Gaelic, we haveset out the individual target datesfor when we expect to implementspecific commitments.

Publicising the Plan

The University of Aberdeen’sGaelic Language Plan will bepublished bilingually on ourwebsite. In addition, we shall:

> issue a press release announcing the Plan;

> make copies of the Plan available in our public offices and reception areas;

> make the Plan known to employees via internal communications systems;

> distribute copies of the Plan to non-departmental public bodies and agencies, agents and contractors;

> distribute copies of the Plan to Gaelic organisations;

> distribute copies of the Plan to

other interested bodies; and

> make copies available on request.

Administrative arrangementsfor implementing the GaelicLanguage Plan

This Plan is the policy of theUniversity of Aberdeen and it wasendorsed by the University Courton 26 March 2013.

Overall Responsibility

The University Principal will beresponsible for ensuring that theUniversity of Aberdeen delivers onthe commitments set out in thisPlan.

Individual Staff members

The University of Aberdeen staffwill be informed of theirinvolvement in Gaelic LanguagePlan actions and activities throughthe work of the Gaelic LanguagePlan Advisory Group and theGaelic Development and PolicyOfficer to ensure that thetimescales are adhered to. Pleasesee the ‘Contact Details’ section ofthe Plan on the final page fordetails of lead officers.

Services delivered by thirdparties

The University of Aberdeen willensure that those who deliverservices or goods on our behalfadhere to the Gaelic LanguagePlan through guidelines onrequirements provided either ontheir appointment to the University

or through the University ofAberdeen’s website. Theseprinciples will also be reflected incontract agreements with third-party service providers.

Informing other organisationsof the Plan

The University of Aberdeen willensure that its Gaelic LanguagePlan is made publicly available,including through publication onthe University website. As part ofour communication of the GaelicLanguage Plan, we will issue apress release outlining theinitiative once the Plan is formallyapproved.

Resourcing the Plan

The University of Aberdeen fundsthe activities outlined in this Planwith support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig.It is envisaged that the Universitywill endeavour to integrate itsGaelic activities further.

Monitoring theimplementation of the Plan

The University of Aberdeen hasestablished a Gaelic LanguagePlan Advisory Group under theconvenership of a Vice-Principal.This Group will be responsible formonitoring the implementation ofthe Plan and for reportinginternally to the UniversityManagement Group and externallyto Bòrd na Gàidhlig, on an annualbasis, on progress made againstthe commitments it contains. TheGroup will meet at least quarterlyand more frequently as and whenrequired.

29Contact details

The senior officer with operational responsibility for overseeing preparation,delivery and monitoring of the University of Aberdeen’s Gaelic LanguagePlan is:

Ms Jennifer Sewel Director of Policy, Planning & Governance Policy, Planning & Governance University of Aberdeen University Office King’s College Aberdeen AB24 3FX

Tel: 01224 272016 Email: [email protected]

Queries about the day-to-day operation of the Plan should be addressed to:

Ms Ashley Powell Gaelic Development & Policy Officer Policy, Planning & Governance University of Aberdeen University Office King’s College Aberdeen AB24 3FX

Tel: 01224 273846 Email: [email protected]

30 Glossary and Abbreviations

AUSA Aberdeen University Students’ Association

BEd Bachelor of Education

Bòrd na Gàidhlig/BnaG National public body with responsibility for preservation of Gaelic

CASS College of Arts and Social Sciences

Clì The Gaelic Learners’ Organisation

Comunn na Gàidhlig/CnaG National Support Agency for Gaelic

Comann nam Pàrant/CnP The National Gaelic Medium Parents’ Organisation

CPD Continuing Professional Development

DIT Directorate of Information Technology

Fèisean Gaelic arts tuition festivals

GLPAG Gaelic Language Plan Advisory Group

GLPS Gaelic for Learners in Primary School

GME Gaelic medium education

Mòd Local or national competitive Gaelic festival of arts

PGDE Professional Graduate Diploma in Education

PPG Policy, Planning & Governance

SCAT Scottish Culture and Traditions Association

SFC Scottish Funding Council

STAR Students Taking Active Roles Award

UMG University Management Group

31

Documents

GAELI C LANGUAGE PLAN 201 3-2018 · PDF file1 This Plan has been prepared under Section 3 of the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005, and was approved by Bòrd na Gàidhlig on 5 March