Celebrating Gaelic at the Royal National Mòd — Meet a Graduate Keeping the Language Alive
As the Royal National Mòd — Scotland’s premier festival of Gaelic language and culture — takes place this week, it’s the perfect moment to celebrate the people who are helping to keep Gaelic strong for future generations.
The Mod is a celebration of our Gaelic linguistic and cultural heritage and as Scotland’s premier Gaelic festival, it provides opportunities for people of all ages to perform in a range of competitions including Gaelic music and song, highland dancing, instrumental, drama, sport and literature.
At UHI North, West and Hebrides, Gaelic isn’t just taught in classrooms; it’s part of everyday life on the islands. From short courses such as Gaelic Song as an Introduction to Gaelic Language; Learn Gaelic for complete beginners, to full degree programmes in music and culture and PGDE in Gaelic teaching, there are opportunities for learners of every level.
One of the people helping to keep this tradition alive is a graduate of UHI North, West and Hebrides, Jayne Macleod, who chose to study Gaelic at UHI in Stornoway and has gone on to build a career in Gaelic media.
Choosing UHI: Staying close to home, close to culture
When Jayne left school, studying Gaelic felt like a natural choice.
“I was always good at languages and keen to pursue a career in media or teaching. I never wanted to live in a city, so studying in Glasgow, Edinburgh or Aberdeen didn’t appeal to me.
“I was very fortunate to study at UHI because it meant I could stay at home and didn’t have to take out a loan to get through my studies — I didn’t start my working life in debt.”
She enrolled on the BA Gaelic Language and Culture degree, a programme that can be studied fully in Gaelic, something that set it apart from other options.
A Unique Gaelic-Focused Learning Experience
“I was able to do the course exclusively in Gaelic with lecturers who were very encouraging at every step. If I’d studied Celtic Studies on the mainland, I wouldn’t have had this opportunity.
“We even did modules like Philosophy through the medium of Gaelic. The course also included a lot of local history and folklore, which we never studied at school, but I found fascinating.”
Being taught by passionate lecturers in a close-knit department made a lasting impression.
“The Gaelic department at the college was exceptional. Not only were we encouraged in our studies, but we were also given opportunities in the wider community — like contributing to television and radio programmes. It was a great course with lecturers who cared deeply about promoting and preserving the Gaelic language and culture.”
Opportunities That Reached Across the World
One of the highlights of her degree came in her Honours year, with a four-month exchange to the University of Cape Breton in Canada.
“It was a wonderful experience where I made a lot of friends and learned so much about Scottish emigration. Most people I met had family roots in Scotland going back generations, and it was fantastic to hear Gaelic spoken there too. I was really encouraged by how strong their music, heritage and culture was.”
Work placements also proved invaluable, including time at BBC Glasgow, Radio nan Gàidheal in Stornoway, and Comunn Eachdraidh Nis.
“Those experiences led me to where I am today, working in Gaelic media.”
Building a Career in Gaelic Media
Today she works at MacTV, using Gaelic every day in writing, speaking, and translation.
“I’m so grateful for the grounding in Gaelic grammar I got at college. I didn’t feel as confident in secondary school, but UHI gave me the skills and confidence to use Gaelic professionally. I’ve never regretted my decision to study it.”
Advice for Future Gaelic Learners
“If you’re interested in Gaelic, I’d strongly encourage you to study it. You’ll learn so much about the language, culture, local history and folklore.
“Being able to do every module through Gaelic prepares you to work in a Gaelic environment. Being bilingual opens so many doors — it gives you another window on the world.
“I feel lucky to have studied on my own island, where dialects are still strong — but we must keep working to preserve our language and culture.”
Life in the Western Isles
Living and studying in the Western Isles also offered a unique quality of life.
“The best thing about being here is living and working in a wonderful community where Gaelic is part of everyday life. There’s also a vibrant music and cultural scene and a rich history.”
Learn Gaelic this Mòd Week
With the Royal National Mòd shining a spotlight on Gaelic, there’s never been a better time to begin your own journey with Gaelic. Whether you dream of working in Gaelic media, teaching, or simply deepening your cultural connection, UHI North, West and Hebrides offers everything from short courses to full degree programmes — taught in the heart of Gaelic-speaking communities.