The Scrutiny & Petitions Committee of Scottish Borders Council met on Thursday 29 October 2026 to discuss progress on the Gaelic Language Plan and to schedule future meetings. The committee noted the progress made on the Gaelic Language Plan and agreed on actions to further its implementation. They also confirmed dates for upcoming meetings concerning the Town Team, the Play Park Fund, and future plans.

Gaelic Language Plan Progress

The committee received an update on the implementation of the Scottish Borders Council's Gaelic Language Plan 2023-2028. Councillor James Anderson, who presented the report, highlighted the progress made and outlined the next steps to ensure continued advancement of the plan. The plan, which aligns with the national aim of increasing the use of Gaelic, focuses on three priorities: increasing its use within the organisation and by the public, providing more opportunities to learn Gaelic, and promoting a positive image of the language.

Key achievements since the last report include:

• Gaelic Medium Primary Education (GMPE): An assessment for GMPE has been completed following a parental request, with a report to be presented to the full Council in November.
• Curriculum Innovation and Partnerships: A pilot project in Galashiels successfully integrated Gaelic drama and music into the curriculum in partnership with the Great Tapestry of Scotland, with plans for expansion to other schools. New partnerships have also been formed with local authorities and national organisations to support regional collaboration.
• Resource Development and Staff Support: Gaelic teaching resources are now accessible to all staff through the SBCway Launchpad and online portals. National Continuing Professional Learning (CLPL) courses are being promoted, and guidance for the 1+2 languages initiative is under review, with Gaelic set to be a key recommendation.
• Community Engagement: A refreshed Council website page dedicated to Gaelic provides information on the plan and educational opportunities. The Great Tapestry of Scotland has also created a special Gaelic learning programme for schools. Local providers for adult Gaelic learning have been identified and will be signposted on the Council's website.

The report also detailed the next steps for full implementation, including completing the GMPE assessment process, improving data collection on Gaelic Medium Education (GME) and Gaelic Language Education (GLE) interest and uptake, and continuing to promote Gaelic through online content, family support packs, and event promotion. Stakeholder engagement will also be pursued to broaden the reach of Gaelic initiatives. The committee was informed that failure to complete the outlined actions could result in a written warning from Bòrd na Gàidhlig¹.

The committee agreed to note the progress made and the identified actions to further progress the implementation of the plan.

Future Meetings

The committee confirmed the dates for future meetings, with some adjustments made due to the local government elections in May 2027. The revised schedule is as follows:

• Wednesday, 9 December 2026: The rolling remit of the Town Team will be undertaken.
• Thursday, 18 February 2027: The Play Park Fund and future plans will be discussed.
• May 2027: The date for a meeting concerning Contracts Processes will be confirmed after the local government elections.

The committee agreed to accept these planned meetings.