English as an Additional Language (EAL) pupils form a growing part of our schools' population. Catering for these pupils’ needs within the mainstream classroom is crucial to ensuring that their level of English proficiency develops, and that they effectively learn the necessary curriculum content.

This course provides practical training to support the learning of EAL pupils in the classroom: understanding their needs, identifying their proficiency and supporting their progress. Unit 1 is for classroom teachers and support staff. Unit 2 is aimed at those specialising in English as an Additional Language (EAL).
 

Aims and outcomes

  • Understand EAL pupils: recognise the key characteristics of English language learners to best shape your provision.
  • Understand EAL learner needs: know the fundamentals of effective teaching for EAL pupils in mainstream classes.
  • Teach EAL pupils: practical tips to adapt your lessons to meet the needs of EAL pupils.
  • Identify proficiency: successfully assess the English language proficiency of pupils.
  • Assess EAL pupils effectively: understand how to carry out EAL assessments, and how to use this information to inform planning.
  • Gauge understanding of content: clarify how to assess pupils’ understanding of curriculum content based on their level of English proficiency.

 

Course content

  • Unit 1: In-classroom support for EAL pupils
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  • Unit 2: Assessing proficiency and planning interventions
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Author

Hamish Chalmers

Hamish Chalmers is an EAL teacher and educational sociolinguistics researcher, with many years’ experience teaching in the UK and in international schools in South East Asia.

Caroline Collins

Caroline is the Head of School Business Strategy and Resources at Miles Coverdale Primary School in London.