English as an Additional Language

Many of the children in our school speak another language. There are around 27 different languages spoken across our school community, the amount of exposure a child receives of English and their other language varies with some children only exposed to English during the school day and others for whom English has become their dominant language.

In our school, the teaching and learning, achievements, attitudes and the wellbeing of all our children are valued. We encourage all of our children to achieve the highest possible standards. We do this by taking account of each child’s life experiences and needs.  

Most of our children who are learning English as an additional language 'think' in their most comfortable language and then translate this to English before recording responses. This is a complicated processes and there can be challenges with self expression and comprehension which can impact or mask their understanding and progress.

Teaching and Learning  

At Warfield C.E. Primary School our primary method of support is to ensure consistently good or outstanding teaching at children’s first point of access in the classroom. Good or outstanding teaching is underpinned by practical learning activities that are multisensory, in environments that are communication rich; where written and verbal language is complemented by visuals; and children feel valued as individuals.  

School staff understand that;

• A limited knowledge of English does not reflect a lack of ability or a lack of literacy in a pupil's mother tongue. Appreciating and acknowledging a pupil's ability in her/his own culture is crucial for her/his self-esteem. 
• The language development of all students is the responsibility of all teachers and teaching support staff. 
• Diversity will be valued and classrooms will be socially and intellectually inclusive. 
• understanding pupils’ abilities and needs in English and other subjects and use this knowledge to inform their curriculum planning, classroom teaching and pupil grouping. 
• Support will be provided in various forms, as appropriate to individual’s needs.

Throughout Warfield C.E. Primary School we plan opportunities for children to develop their English language, and we provide support to help them take part in all activities.  

All children in our school follow the curricular requirements of the Foundation Stage and the National Curriculum. Children with English as an additional language do not produce separate work. 

 At Warfield we help children learn English as an additional language by:  

• Building on children’s experiences of language at home and in the wider community, so that their developing uses of English and of other languages support one another. 
• Providing a range of opportunities for children to engage in speaking and listening activities in English with peers and adults. 
• Providing support to extend vocabulary where possible. 
• Continuing those strategies used in EYFS, whilst moving the emphasis towards written and spoken English in preparation for SATs at the end of KS2.

 Parent Partnership  

Our school recognises the paramount importance of, and values the partnership with, parents and carers.  

We aim to:  

• Provide a comfortable and welcoming environment where parents/carers can discuss any concerns. 
• Ensure shared knowledge and support via review meetings and parent evenings. 
• Take into account parents’ knowledge, views and attitudes. 
• Consult with and involve parents at all stages of their child’s time on the EAL register. 
• Provide parents with information on school policy, support and services provided by the school and the LA and their rights in the assessment process. 
• Provide and use information techniques that ensure communication is clear and hence effective. 
• Enlist the help of parents with home activities designed to reinforce work in school. 

 We are committed to equal opportunities for all, irrespective of race, gender, sexuality, disability or religion.