This was created by Whitehirst School to define the rationale for awarding the shield each year.
Gàidhlig Shield/Annette Biggar Award– Rationale
The Annette Biggar Award has been donated by the North Ayrshire Community Group Suas leis a’ Ghàidhlig. The Shield is a new annual award within the Gàidhlig department, designed to celebrate and recognise a pupil who has shown excellent commitment to their Gàidhlig learning and to Gàidhlig culture over the course of the school year.
The shield will be presented to the nominated pupil at the annual WHPPS Summer Service. Their name will be engraved on the shield and the nominated pupil will receive a small shield to take home.
Rather than being awarded solely for language ability or fluency, the award focuses on qualities that support meaningful and successful learning. These include effort, perseverance, enthusiasm, creativity, curiosity and a willingness to take risks. This approach ensures that all pupils, regardless of their starting point, have something positive and achievable to work towards.
Each year, the Award will have a different theme. Examples of possible themes include:
- Bravery in Using Gàidhlig – for pupils who take risks and try even when unsure
- Vocabulary Star – for developing and using new words and phrases
- Independent Learner – for showing initiative and responsibility for their learning
- Gaelic Culture Champion – for engagement with songs, stories, traditions and heritage
By changing the focus annually, we aim to ensure that the Award remains motivating for all learners.
The Award aims to:
- Encourage a growth mindset and a love of learning
- Celebrate progress
- Recognise positive attitudes and consistent effort
- Promote pride in Gaelic language and culture
- Support inclusion and pupil wellbeing
- Highlight the importance of kindness, collaboration and resilience
Pupils may work towards the Award in many ways, such as:
- Showing improvement and perseverance
- Participating enthusiastically in lessons
- Using Gaelic confidently, even when unsure
- Supporting and encouraging others
- Engaging with Gaelic music, stories, traditions and culture
- Sharing their learning beyond the classroom
By introducing the Gàidhlig Shield, we hope to create a meaningful and motivating and meaningful way to celebrate success in Gàidhlig. One that reflects our values as a school community and supports every child’s learning journey.