Some of our youngest children will have help to learn Guernesiais through new games funded by the Guernsey Language Commission.
It’s funding the preparation of new learning materials for Primary School teachers to use with their pupils at Key Stage One.
The interactive gamed are designed for use by teachers who speak little or no Guernesiais, meaning the teachers can learn our language alongside the children with minimal preparation.
The games involve learning some basic sounds, phrases, and vocabulary in a fun and authentic way.
Anita Wood Senior Lecturer in Education, at the University of Exeter has been working with Yan Marquis, Guernesiais teacher and translator on the materials.
“It is great to be involved in this project which aims to sow the seeds of Guernsey’s Language in a fun and engaging way and perhaps create linguistic curiosity in young minds,” said Mr Marquis.
“Language learning brings so many benefits to both children and adults,” said Ms Wood.
“Imagine if every child in Guernsey could confidently play just a handful of games in our island’s language – early confidence is crucial and lays a strong foundation for future learning. We hope this project will support teachers and children through a fun, play-based approach.”
Teachers and pupils at Amherst Primary School and Blanchelande College are among those who have had a sneak peak at the learning tools already.
Other schools will use them in a trial starting this Autumn.