EAL Support

What Is EAL?

English as an Additional Language (EAL) describes pupils who have been exposed to a language other than English at home. EAL is not a special educational need - it is about language acquisition. At OLsJ, we celebrate the linguistic diversity our pupils bring and ensure every learner can access the full curriculum.

When a New EAL Pupil Joins Us

When an EAL pupil joins OLSJ, we act quickly to make them feel safe, valued and ready to learn. The class teacher, phase and inclusion leader work together to ensure a smooth and supportive start. 

Stages of EAL Acquisition

We use nationally recognised EAL stages to understand where each pupil is in their language journey and plan support accordingly.

ow We Support EAL Learners in Class

Every teacher at OLSJ is a language teacher. We use a range of strategies to make learning accessible for EAL pupils across all subjects.

Peer Support and Inclusion

We create an inclusive environment where EAL pupils feel they belong from day one. Peer support is one of our most powerful tools.

• New arrivals are paired with a language buddy who models positive behaviour and supports day-to-day interaction.
• The silent period is respected - pupils are never pressured to speak before they are ready.
• Home languages are celebrated, not discouraged - they are a bridge to English, not a barrier.
• All attempts at communication are valued and encouraged.

Planning EAL Support

Once a pupil's EAL stage has been identified, we put a clear plan in place to ensure they receive the right level of support across all areas of school life.

Working With Families

We believe families are essential partners in supporting EAL pupils. We work hard to communicate clearly and make every family feel welcome, regardless of their own level of English.

Listening to EAL Pupils

We actively seek the views of EAL pupils to understand what is helping them and what they find challenging. Their voice shapes the support we provide.

• Pupils are asked how they feel about their learning in a safe, low-pressure way.
• They share what helps them understand and what they find difficult.
• Their views are used to adapt teaching strategies and resources.
• We celebrate every step of progress, however smal

Putting EAL Support Into Practice

With a clear picture of each pupil's needs, we deliver targeted support in school. This may include in-class strategies, small group work or individual language sessions.

Monitoring EAL Progress

EAL pupils' progress is reviewed regularly to ensure support remains effective and that targets reflect their growing language skills. We track both language development and curriculum attainment.

EAL and SEND — Understanding the Difference

EAL is not the same as a Special Educational Need. It is important that we do not confuse language acquisition with learning difficulty. However, some EAL pupils may also have SEND, and we are careful to identify and support both. 

Our Commitment to Every EAL Learner

At OLSJ, we are committed to ensuring that every EAL pupil feels valued, included and able to thrive — academically, socially and emotionally. Language is never a barrier to belonging here.

Every child who walks through our doors brings something unique. Our job is to make sure they have everything they need to flourish.