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I'm trying to learn Gaelic, and it's really difficult. Or, I should say, it's no more difficult than any other language to learn if I'm honest, but I've found learning difficult - undoubtedly as a result my own failings to get to grips with certain aspects of the language. I came across the previous version of the ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Alba Beag air Bheag site before I started working at the Beeb, as well as Roddy Maclean's An Litir Bheag radio programmes. I found these resources two of the most helpful ways of learning because I could use them in my own time and at my own pace, in the comfort of my living room, without making a fool of myself. Trying my new phrases out on Gaelic-speaking pals always made me feel like I was getting somewhere, and so spurred me on to learn more.

Now that I'm on the inside as it were, I'm delighted to see that they've both undergone a bit of a revamp. Beag air Bheag (as well as looking much more modern) now contains sections where you can learn a song in Gaelic - I promise you they will stick in your head all day long - and even an ongoing soap opera where the learners control the plot. The simple, straightforward phrases, with audio aids and the 'test yourself' section are still there so you can keep an eye on your progress too. I know that I'll be using this in my own learning, and I'm sure that with a resource like this to use I will improve my Gaelic 'beag air bheag'.

An Litir Bheag has followed its big brother, Litir do Luchd-Ionnsachaidh, into podcasting - now you can subscribe to receive the programme as a podcast and listen to Roddy's patient tones telling you a new story every week. I find the really useful to follow, sometimes just seeing the words written down in front of you can really help it sink in!

So why not join me in my quest to learn Gaelic? For the year of maybe your learners would enjoy picking up a few essential phrases - Gaelic and ³Òྱ»å³ó±ô¾±²µ Higher Bitesize is also there for those who have taken it that step further! As for me, I'm going to sit tonight with a 'srùbag' (cuppa) and explore the new-look Beag air Bheag; who knows, I might be able to blog this in Gaelic soon.