English as an Additional Language

We are a very inclusive school that embraces a range of cultures, backgrounds and languages. We understand the difficulties and how hard pupils have to work to translate what is being taught into their home language, do the work and then translate back to English.

• The main role of the E.A.L. support staff is to facilitate the learning of the English language. Whilst Literacy skills in English are developing, the pupils' home language is also valued. In this way, the pupils emerge as confident learners.

• It is very important that parents/carers continue to use the child’s first language at home in order to consolidate language acquisition. Research shows that if the home language has a good foundation, then additional languages that a child learns will develop more easily.

• One important way in which you can help your child is to regularly engage in speaking and listening in your home language, discussing school and home experiences. It is also very important to take time to share reading books daily. After the text has been read in English, the story could be discussed in the pupil’s home language.