English as an Additional Language
What is English as an additional language (EAL)?
‘EAL’ stands for English as an additional language. It is a term used to describe children where English may not be their first language. Children with EAL will have varying levels of proficiency in English, depending on their exposure and support, ranging from children learning to speak their first English words, to those who speak English fluently.
EAL at Valley Primary Academy
At Valley Primary Academy, we are proud that so many families from different nationalities and cultures belong to our school community.
Our school community is linguistically diverse, with 15 languages spoken across the school. Currently, 40.8% of pupils are recorded as having English as an Additional Language (EAL).
We strive to recognise this rich cultural diversity in many ways:
It is reflected in the CUSP curriculum followed in our classrooms. We have dual language texts and books reflecting multicultural life in our school library and classroom reading corners.We celebrate difference and multicultural festivals in assemblies.Corridor displays showcase the range of languages spoken in each class. We take part in special events such as The Day of Welcome and Black History Month. We have signed the School of Sanctuary pledge to show our commitment to working towards becoming a School of Sanctuary.
We warmly welcome visitors in school to share their home languages, cultures or religious practices. If you are interested in coming in to read a story or speak in the classroom, please contact the school office.
At Valley Primary Academy, we know that being multi-lingual is a real asset for children and we encourage families to continue to speak their first language at home. There is some further advice here.
Additional Support
Sometimes, children and families who speak English as additional language might need some extra support. This could include:
A family referral to the REDI Team (Relocation, Ethnic Diversity, and Integration) (See the flyer below for details).
REDI team info guide for schools CB
Individual visual supports in the classroom and iPad resources including translation tools.
Using the Bell Foundation Assessment Tracker to measure and monitor progress.
Language Line translation for parents/carers if needed during discussions and in meetings. Please ask for this if it is not offered.
A referral to the Norfolk County Council EAL team for additional advice (with parental consent).
Useful links and websites
New Routes
The Bell Foundation
Just One Norfolk
For further help and support, call the SEND and inclusion support line on 0333 313 7165
If you have any questions, any suggestions, or would like to find out more about how we support children with EAL at Valley Primary Academy, please contact our EAL coordinator, Eileen Maceachern eileen.maceachern@valleyprimary.org.uk