WHINHILL Primary pupils sang their hearts out to give a master class in Gaelic language and culture.

Youngsters flying the flag for Chnoc A’ Chonaisg  — the Gaelic name for the primary school — put in some powerful individual and group performances at the Glasgow Provincial Mòd for school pupils.

Children from the Gaelic unit and others from the main school came together to show just how important the language is in Inverclyde.

Choral singers from Gaelic-speaking pupils won first place in the puirt à beul competition, as they impressed with their interpretation of native song. 

They were joined by Kirsten MacLean, from the mainstream school, who picked up first place in the learners section for her beautiful singing.

Gaelic teacher Alasdair MacPhee, who led the Mòd group said: “It was such a great honour to do so well.

“The pupils were all brilliant, both the Gaelic pupils and those learning the language.

“I have been here three years and in my first year we took bronze, my second year silver and I told them last year we were going for gold and we did it!

“It is great recognition for the school and all the work that goes on here.

“Our Gaelic school is thriving and we have very healthy intakes of pupils.

“I think people are recognising the value of learning in Gaelic, with the language and the culture.”

Primary seven pupil Kirsten, who took first place in the learners section as well as taking part in other competition, was delighted.

Performing with Kyle Small and Matthew Peberdy, they managed to make a success of singing in a language that is unusual to them.,

Kirsten said: “I love Gaelic.”

Alasdair, who comes from Benbecula in the Outer Hebrides, worked closely with teacher Kate Bannerman to put the group of competitors together.

Ms Bannerman teaches Gaelic to pupils across the school.

She said: “The pupils did so well to take part in the competition.

“I have to thank all the teachers in school because without their support we wouldn’t be able to do it. It makes such a difference to have their backing. They are all learning Gaelic as well.”