Teach Scots in our schools

Published on Tuesday 24 February 2009 21:21

Scots should be in the curriculum of schools in Scotland (Letters, 23 February) because it is an important indigenous language, and this should be formally recognised. It was the language of court, parliament and law for many centuries, and should be restored.

Teaching Scots as part of the curriculum re-establishes its esteem. It also gives to those who hear, speak, read and write it the confidence that comes from having one's mother tongue valued and from being bilingual. The Scots language is intrinsically important, and the fact that its inclusion in the curriculum is likely also to improve attainment is a bonus. Scots should have parity of recognition with English and Gaelic, and Gaelic should also be part of the curriculum in all Scottish schools (not only Gaelic-medium ones).

The best way to promote "attainment" is to have a varied and liberal education which includes all of the child's languages and culture. So there is a real need for Scots in schools, as of right.

SUSAN FG FORDE

Main Street

Scotlandwell, Kinross-shire