Na Gaisgich Òga

Na Gaisgich Òga | The Young Heroes is a Gaelic mentorship program for Nova Scotia youth aged 10–16, offered by Colaisde na Gàidhlig | The Gaelic College. Open to beginner, advanced beginners and intermediate level learners alike, the program fosters language learning, cultural engagement, and community connection through immersive experiences. Participants acquire the language through activity-based learning and explore cultural elements such as song, storytelling, music, dance, and more. Program graduates are eligible for a Grade 10 Leadership Credit.

Program Highlights:

  • Runs from September 18th – April 4th
  • 8 immersive weekends at the Gaelic College
  • Students matched with a Gaelic-speaking mentor in the local area
  • 3 mentorship sessions at the Gaelic College built into the weekends
  • Bi-weekly mentor sessions held in the community
  • Credit is added to transcript when student reach grade 10.

Deadline for applications: July 31, 2026

  • Open to Nova Scotia residents aged 10–16

  • Must show genuine interest and commitment to Gaelic language and culture

  • Should intend to use Gaelic daily and share it with others (family, friends, community)

  • Requires strong family support for language use and cultural learning

  • Parents/guardians must assist with transportation to weekend sessions and local mentor meetings

Participants will receive over 190 hours of learning:

  • 100 hours of Gaelic immersion
  • 60 hours of cultural learning (history/folklore)
  • 30 hours of mentorship
  • Upon completing the program, students are eligible for a Grade 10 Leadership Credit.
  • Motivate students to learn, enjoy, share, and champion Gaelic Nova Scotia 
  • Provide young learners with an opportunity to be immersed in Gaelic language and culture 
  • Bring students closer to functional fluency in the language 
  • Cultivate a sense of identity as young Gaels living in Nova Scotia 
  • Enlighten youth to become aware and to respect intergenerational learning opportunities in regards to Gaelic cultural acquisition 
  • Develop an awareness in youth of the unique opportunity they have to contribute to the growth of the language 

  • $450: Tuition (includes all weekend and mentor sessions)

  • $200: Room

  • $350: Meals

  • For information on bursaries, please email colin@gaeliccollege.edu

Apply via our form here: https://forms.gle/1XyzDai2y9Cj24vc8

For more information, contact Gaelic Director Colin MacDonald at colin@gaeliccollege.edu.