EAL - English as an Additional Language
At our school, we celebrate the rich diversity of languages, cultures and experiences that our pupils bring. We are committed to ensuring that all children, including those with English as an Additional Language (EAL), feel valued, included and supported to achieve their full potential.
What is EAL?
English as an Additional Language (EAL) refers to pupils who have been exposed to a language other than English during their early development and continue to use this language at home or in their community.
EAL learners are a diverse group: some may be new to English, while others may be fluent speakers who are continuing to develop their academic language skills.
We recognise that multilingualism is a strength and that pupils’ home languages play an important role in their identity, learning and wellbeing.
Our Aims
In line with national guidance and our inclusive school ethos, we aim to:
- Provide equal access to a broad, balanced and ambitious curriculum for all pupils
- Support pupils to develop confidence and proficiency in English
- Value and celebrate linguistic and cultural diversity
- Ensure pupils with EAL are able to participate fully in school life
- Promote high expectations and achievement for every learner
We recognise that developing proficiency in English is key to educational success and social integration.
How We Support EAL Learners
We take a whole-school approach to supporting pupils with EAL. This includes:
Assessment and induction
- Welcoming new pupils and families and gathering information about prior learning and language use
- Assessing English language proficiency and monitoring progress over time
Quality First Teaching
- Adapting teaching through visuals, modelling, scaffolding and clear language
- Providing meaningful opportunities for speaking, listening, reading and writing
Targeted support
- Additional support where needed through small group or one-to-one interventions
- Focused teaching to develop vocabulary, comprehension and academic language
Inclusive environment
- Encouraging the use of home languages as a resource for learning
- Promoting a sense of belonging and cultural inclusion across the school
Partnership with families
- Working closely with parents and carers
- Providing information and support to help families engage with learning
Our provision for EAL is embedded within our wider curriculum and inclusion strategy. We ensure that:
- Pupils at the early stages of learning English receive effective, targeted support
- Teaching enables pupils with EAL to access the full curriculum
- Leaders monitor the progress and attainment of EAL learners carefully
- Staff are equipped with the knowledge and strategies to support language development
Inclusion and Equality
We are committed to meeting our duties under the Equality Act 2010, ensuring that all pupils, including those with EAL, have equal opportunities to succeed.
We believe that every child:
- Has the right to a high-quality education
- Should feel safe, respected and included
- Brings valuable experiences that enrich our school community
Further Information
For more information about EAL provision, please explore the links below: