Total Immersion Plus / Gaidhlig Aig Baile How It Works ...

About Sgoil Ghàidhlig's immersion courses

Sgoil Ghàidhlig’s immersion courses utilize a methodology known as Total Immersion Plus (TIP), which was introduced to Nova Scotia by Finlay MacLeod of Comhairle nan Sgoiltean Àraich, the Scottish Gaelic Preschools Association. Immersion courses of this type are also known as Gàidhlig aig Baile, or ‘Gaelic in the Community’. Gàidhlig aig Baile instruction is currently offered in numerous Nova Scotian communities, and Sgoil Ghàidhlig an Àrd-bhaile offers one of the most extensive course timetables in the province.

Why try an immersion course with Sgoil Ghàidhlig an Àrd-bhaile?

Gàidhlig aig Baile courses and workshops teach students to speak and understand Gaelic through conducting everyday activities, games and conversation in a total immersion environment. Once students are functional in the language, they may learn to read and write Gaelic, either in continued immersion through Sgoil Ghàidhlig’s ‘Advanced Reading and Writing in Gaelic’ course or through other methods.

Gàidhlig aig Baile courses and workshops lead to conversational competence in the language more quickly than through other methods of teaching Gaelic. There is ample opportunity to speak the language from the very first session attended. Furthermore, Gàidhlig aig Baile courses build on Gaelic community strengths: native speakers' knowledge of the language is valued, and aspects of Gaelic culture, such as storytelling, song and traditional skills are incorporated into the teaching. Gaelic values of hospitality and community are integral to the experience: many learning sessions take place in members' homes, creating a relaxed, informal atmosphere. And students learn Gaelic in a co-operative, supportive environment. There are no tests, and students are never put on the spot or expected to answer a question that they don't know the answer to. The overriding goal of Sgoil Ghàidhlig an Àrd-bhaile is to build a Gaelic-speaking community in the Halifax area. Conversational opportunities are incorporated into each course session, and there are many opportunities to socialize and practice Gaelic at pub nights and cèilidhs.

If you are interested in learning to speak Gaelic fluently, Sgoil Ghàidhlig’s Gàidhlig aig Baile courses are your most effective and cost-efficient option. Beginners are welcome to attend a session before making a commitment. Come see for yourself!