English as an Additional Language
The purpose of the EAL Department is to offer support to pupils of different cultural and linguistic backgrounds as they work towards proficiency in English, while following the mainstream curriculum.
Specialist teachers help pupils become stronger in English so that they can make full use of all the educational opportunities on offer. This support is tailored to the needs of the individual and is provided, in the academic context, through timetabled EAL lessons.
The departmental aims and objectives are to extend the pupils knowledge of English language and culture, and to provide a learning programme which increases their linguistic competence and enables them to participate fully in the mainstream curriculum. The pupils are prepared for and work towards EAL examinations. The IGCSE in year 10 and 11 and the IELTS exam in year 12.
The EAL Department is located in the newly built Winn Building. We have three classrooms and a dedicated computer area.
Department Overview
The department aims to extend pupils’ knowledge of the English culture and language, and provide a learning programme that increases their linguistic competence. When they first arrive, pupils for whom English is not a first language are encouraged to discuss a variety of topics. This helps to extend their vocabulary and give them the confidence both to ask questions and articulate their opinions. These traits are critical in achieving the qualifications in English that will give pupils access to higher education.
The department monitors pupils’ overall linguistic progress, interaction and participation through continuous feedback from subject teachers. Guidelines for good practice in the classroom are also provided by the department to subject teachers.
“I’m so pleased I took IGCSE EAL. It has meant that I have been able to achieve a very good level in an English Language qualification and it has supported my progress in mainstream English classes.”
