The decision marks a significant step forward for Gaelic immersion education in the area, following a detailed assessment of demand. The plan is contingent on the successful recruitment of qualified staff and securing at least 75 per cent ongoing funding from the Scottish Government.
The initiative was prompted by a formal request from a parent in July 2025. Following this, the Council contacted families who had expressed interest, with 18 families representing 24 children confirming their interest, meeting the statutory threshold for consideration.
Councillor Julie Pirone, Executive Member for Education Youth Development and Lifelong Learning, stated, “This is a positive step towards providing Gaelic Medium Primary Education in the Scottish Borders and responds directly to the interest expressed by local families. We now have an opportunity to work with families and our partners to see how we can establish a high-quality and sustainable service.”
Based on current interest, the first class in August 2027 could comprise 13 children, with eight Primary 2 and five Primary 1 pupils. The Tweeddale area was chosen as it is where the majority of interested families reside.
GMPE employs an immersion approach where Gaelic is the sole language of learning from Primary 1 to 3. English is introduced from Primary 4, with Gaelic remaining the predominant language. Currently, the Scottish Borders has no GMPE provision, requiring families to seek places in neighbouring areas and receive transport support.
The Council's feasibility study considered demand, staffing, accommodation, transport, funding, and long-term sustainability. Responses from Education Scotland, Bòrd na Gàidhlig, and Comann nam Pàrant all supported the establishment of GMPE.
