The teaching of the Irish language will be integrated into PE lessons in schools in an attempt to improve children’s confidence in learning.
The three-year project plans to introduce the Irish language in a non-classroom environment, and allow children to get used to speaking it in a more relaxed setting.
Joe McHugh, Minister for Education and Skills, launched the campaign at Maynooth University. He was joined by teachers from around the country and sports stars including Ireland rugby captain Ciara Griffin and soccer star Amber Barrett.
The PE as Gaeilge project aims to improve children’s competence and confidence when learning the language. It is based on a Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) approach, with children feeling more natural outside the classroom when talking and playing sports.
The PE as Gaeilge project will use CLIL methods in primary schools and it is hoped it can be expanded over the three years.
The Irish language has seen a rise in popularity in recent years. One summer school in Co Galway has seen a great response by using pop songs as a way of getting kids to learn the Irish language.
Written by Andrew Moore