English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme
Our EAL Support Programme helps our non-native English speaking students to improve their proficiency. We create a learning environment that encourages our students to immerse themselves in a second language and culture, while maintaining respect for and pride in their cultural and linguistic heritage.
We assess each student's linguistic competence when they first arrive at school. Students whose level is below what is required will take the English as a Second Language IGCSE course at Key Stage 4. Students whose level of English is low, but who demonstrate an ability to learn, may be given additional, intensive support until they're able to access the curriculum independently. This involves one-to-one support outside of lessons to develop essential reading and spelling skills, vocabulary, and sentence structure. Such support is short-term and is designed to help each student reach a level where they can function in the classroom.
Many students with special educational needs (SEN) are also at the early stages of learning the English language. Our Learning Support team works closely with the EAL department to ensure that language targets and strategies are taken into account, and that a consistent approach is maintained when addressing each child’s needs.
