Fàs Mòr has had another exhausting but rewarding year providing Gaelic-medium Early Years Education in South Skye. We’ve offered tailored childcare services for children aged 0–3, creating a fun and immersive environment for learning Gaelic. Our sessions took place at the Fàs Mòr Portacabin, Bun-Sgoil Shlèite, Kilmore. Direct funding from the Highland Council stopped last year, but further support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig, dedicated fundraising, donations and good attendance has allowed the organisation to continue as the only Gaelic-medium pre-school childcare facility of its kind in Scotland.
Key Achievements:
- Delivered regular sessions following Gaelic-medium education principles.
- Led by skilled, Gaelic-fluent staff members.
- Supported families and strengthened community ties through early education.
Delivery Targets and Progress:
- Deliver 240 Gaelic early years sessions by July 2025.
- Aim for an average of 8 children per session.
Progress So Far:
- Attendance: 26 regular children, plus an additional 10 who joined for set periods.
- Staffing: A dedicated team of 5 full-time staff, 1 temporary staff member (1 week), and support from 3 student volunteers.
We’re proud of the impact we’ve made so far and look forward to continuing to provide high-quality Gaelic early years education in our community, and we know we are an exemplar of how Gaelic can be sustained and nourished within a community where the number of native speakers is declining. The board is also aware of how important we are in helping the economic well-being of the community, attracting and keeping young families in the area, and assisting with the cultural and social cohesion of Sleat and beyond. Every community in the Highlands needs a facility like Fàs Mòr, and should be at the centre of how a council helps invest in sustaining fragile rural communities.
The recognition and support of the Royal Celtic Society is appreciated not just for its usefulness, (the money donated will be put towards improving the outdoor play space), but for the fact that you recognise the work that we do.
Mòran taing from the board, staff and children of Fàs Mòr.
