English as an Additional Language (EAL)
In defining EAL we have adopted the following definition: ‘An EAL pupil is a pupil whose first language is not English. This encompasses pupils who are fully bilingual and all those at different stages of learning English.
EAL pupils may be:
- Newly arrived from a foreign country and/or school;
- Newly arrived from a foreign country, but an English-speaking school;
- Born abroad, but moved to the UK at some point before starting school; or
- Born in the UK, but in a family where the main language is not English.
At Christ the King we aim to ensure pupils ‘Live life to the full’ (John 10:10) by seeking to ensure that all pupils are enabled to have access to a broad, balanced and relevant curriculum. English is best learnt through the curriculum and EAL pupils should be encouraged to play a full part in all learning opportunities. EAL learners make the best progress within a whole school context, where pupils are educated with their peers. The school environment promotes language development through the rich use of language. The school structure, pastoral care and overall ethos help EAL pupils integrate into the school whilst valuing diversity.
Bilingualism is viewed as a positive and life-enriching asset. At Christ the King we are proud to have a diverse community, over 50% of our learners have EAL, there are 11 spoken and written languages across the school, including:
- Polish
- Malayalam
- Igbo
- Yoruba
- Arabic
- Iranian
- Hindi
- Afrikaans
- Italian
- Bemba
We encourage children to speak their languages with their peers, celebrate and share their cultures.
We use the Bell Foundation to support our provision of EAL. Please see attachments below and their website for further information on how to support your child at school.
The following linked documents are currently available in 22 languages.
Helping Children Learn - https://www.bell-foundation.org.uk/resources/guidance/parental-involvement/guidance-for-parents-helping-children-learn/
About the English Education System - https://www.bell-foundation.org.uk/resources/guidance/parental-involvement/guidance-for-parents-english-education-system/