Young Gaels enjoy taster sessions on the high seas – The Oban Times

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Primary seven Gaelic medium pupils on Skye have been enjoying sailing taster sessions organised by Isle of Skye Sailing Club in partnership with Highland Council.

Twelve pupils from Bun-sgoil Ghidhlig Phort Rgh, Dunvegan and Kilmuir primaries took part in the sessions over three weeks.

The sessions took place in Portree after school and offered youngsters who have never had the opportunity to sail the experience of working with qualified instructors to gain a basic introduction to the water.

Elaine Ferguson, a trustee of Skye Sailing Club said: Skye Sailing Club has been delighted to offer afternoon taster sessions to the P7 GM pupils.

This was the first time some of them have been on the sea and to watch them grow in confidence over the weeks has been incredibly rewarding.

Sailing is a great sport which encourages teamwork and communication and it has given the children the chance to meet other Gaelic medium pupils and forge new relationships before they head up to the high school next year.

After the past 18 months of lockdown and cancelled events, its a privilege to be able to provide a venue and opportunity for them to learn something new, laugh with their friends and to get wet!

Lorna MacKinnon, a Gaelic medium parent at Bun-sgoil Ghidhlig Phort Rgh, said: My daughter thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the Gaelic sailing taster sessions as it increased her confidence, especially following on from lockdown as it created a great opportunity for her and her peers to get together.

Calum Munro, chairman of The Highland Council Gaelic Committee, acknowledged the support provided by Brd na Gaidhlig.

The sailing activities organised by The Highland Council Gaelic Team in association with Skye Sailing Club is an excellent example of a successful partnership which supported Gaelic medium pupils in a community setting, he added.

Highland Council Gaelic team plans to continue to work with Skye Sailing Club on more events.

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Young Gaels enjoy taster sessions on the high seas - The Oban Times