English as an additional language

Ethnic minority pupils represent 70 per cent of the school population, with more than 100 languages other than English represented. The majority of these students are learning English as an additional language (EAL) at the same time as studying different subjects through the medium of English. The Language Development Service is a specialist team of teachers and professionals who work with schools to raise the achievement of ethnic minority pupils.

Some schools may also have identified underachieving groups of ethnic minority pupils for support.

We support schools with:

  • the development of whole school provision to meet the needs of ethnic minority pupils
  • the teaching and learning of English as an Additional Language
  • meeting the needs of refugees, Travellers and underachieving ethnic minority groups
  • parental involvement and multi-agency working
  • staff, curriculum and policy development

We also lead cross-service forums to:

  • manage and coordinate provision for Travellers

EAL curriculum initiatives

We have developed curriculum initiatives for EAL learners 14 to 19 years who are at the early stages of learning English.