Should I learn Gaelic?

What’s the worst that can happen? You try and you don’t quite get the hang of it or you didn’t enjoy it as much as you thought you would. Perhaps, you actually enjoyed it and a year from now you will be able to read, write and speak the language.

We all know two languages are better than one, research has shown that. Going for a job interview? Chances are you will stand out from a crowd of 100 if you have Gaelic and they don’t. You can become a Gaelic teacher, work for BBC Alba, become a sports commentator and much more.

Gaelic is not a ‘dying language’, but it does need help to flourish so it’s not forgotten. By learning just a couple of words means you are helping the language and becoming part of Scotland’s history. There are many courses online you can try as well as night classes to work around your schedule - making more opportunities for everyone.

So whether you want to learn Gaelic out of interest, or are thinking of putting your child through Gaelic education, the benefits are endless as well as the reasons why you should give it a go. I am very lucky to have been educated through the language and had I not, I wouldn’t have had the opportunities I have today.