Learning English as an Additional Language (EAL) at BIS Hanoi

What is EAL? 

EAL stands for English as an Additional Language. It refers to the teaching and learning of English for students whose first language is not English. At the British International School Hanoi (BIS Hanoi), we understand that mastering a new language is more than just learning grammar and vocabulary. It's about building confidence and creating a sense of belonging. 

The challenges of learning English as an Additional Language (EAL)  

Moving to a new country, adapting to a different school system, and making new friends can be overwhelming for any student. For those learning English as a second language, these challenges are even greater. 

"My two daughters grew up abroad and always studied in English, which was not their first language, so I am very aware of parents’ concerns when choosing the right school," shared Laurence Cabanne, Deputy Head of Primary and EAL Lead at BIS Hanoi.

Our tailored EAL programme at BIS Hanoi 

At BIS Hanoi, student wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. Our EAL programme is carefully designed to provide the right support at the right time, helping students grow their English skills while feeling safe and supported. 

We offer a three-tiered system that caters to students at different stages of their English language journey: 

• Tier 1: For students new to English, this level focuses on acquiring basic language skills, helping them follow simple instructions and express their basic needs. 
• Tier 2: As students gain confidence, they work on expanding their vocabulary and understanding grammar. 
• Tier 3: The final stage prepares students to fully engage in mainstream classes, ensuring they can fully access the school curriculum. 

Our EAL lessons take place in small groups, allowing for personalised instruction tailored to each student's needs. "EAL students are vulnerable and need to be reassured and feel safe. Our lessons provide a supportive environment where they can make mistakes without fear, because making mistakes is part of learning," explained Laurence. 

How long does it take to learn English? 

Every student progresses at their own pace, but research shows that students arriving with little to no English typically need one to two years to develop the basic communication skills required for mainstream classes. Our EAL teachers focus not only on building language proficiency but also on boosting students’ confidence, especially when it comes to speaking, a skill many students find challenging due to fear of making mistakes. 

EAL assessment and progress tracking 

We begin EAL support from Year 1, emphasising speaking and listening skills. Progress is continuously monitored through lessons and formally assessed at the end of each term in four key areas: Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. Results are shared with class teachers to ensure consistency between EAL and mainstream classrooms. As students move through the tiers, the number of EAL lessons gradually decreases: 

• Tier 1: 5 lessons per week 
• Tier 2: 4 lessons per week 
• Tier 3: 3 lessons per week 

“Our team of qualified and experienced EAL teachers build strong relationships with students, creating a nurturing environment where language skills and confidence grow hand in hand. We believe that learning English is not only about mastering a new language but also empower students to be confident and ready to embrace all aspects of school life and beyond,” said Laurence. 

If you're a parent considering BIS Hanoi for your child whose English isn't their mother tongue, rest assured that our EAL programme is designed to provide the support they need, every step of the way. 

Interested in learning more about learning English as an Additional Language (EAL) at BIS Hanoi? 

Contact us today to find out how we can support your child’s English language journey!