Ƶapp Council confirmed its ongoing commitment to promoting Gaelic language and culture throughout the area. However, following an extensive 10-week public consultation, at full council today, Councillors agreed not to pursue a dedicated Gaelic School at this time.
"Gaelic has played an important role in shaping Ƶapp," said Councillor Audrey Forrest, Policy Lead for Education. "While we remain committed about promoting the language, current circumstances and public feedback don’t allow us to take forward an all-Gaelic School just now."
Community feedback and the decision
The consultation, which ran from 22nd April to 30th June 2024, received 673 responses, with 45% of participants supporting the idea of a Gaelic-only school, while 55% were against it. Of the responses, the Council received seven in Gaelic. This feedback, coupled with current budgetary constraints and competing educational priorities, led councillors to make the decision.
Councillor Forrest thanked everyone who responded to the consultation:
“We really appreciate everyone taking the time to share their views. While a majority of respondents are not in favour of a Gaelic school, the council’s commitment to promoting the language and culture remains strong, as evidenced in our and in our schools and Early Learning Centres”
With reducing budgets and competing priorities, we are not in a positon to take forward the concept of a dedicated Gaelic school. Our Education Service continues to deliver and grow Gaelic Medium and Gaelic Learner Education across the authority. Our priority now is to extend Gaelic learning opportunities for more pupils across Ƶapp. “
Ongoing commitment to Gaelic education
The council remains fully committed to fulfilling its obligations under the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005. As part of its Gaelic Language Plan, approved by Bòrd na Gàidhlig, the council will continue expanding access to Gaelic education through initiatives already in place.
The council currently offers Gaelic Medium Education (GME), providing immersive language learning starting from early years, available in locations such as Oban, Appin, Dunoon, Mull, Tiree, and Islay. Additionally, many primary and high schools offer Gaelic as a modern language, giving students the chance to learn Gaelic alongside other languages like French.
What’s next for Gaelic in Ƶapp?
Ƶapp Council is actively working to broaden the reach of Gaelic education, ensuring that pupils across the area have the opportunity to connect with the language and culture.
For further details on the council’s Gaelic Language Plan and ongoing efforts to enrich Gaelic education in the community, visit