English is not my first language
Senior School
We offer additional English lessons (English as an Additional Language) for students with varying levels of English. When you come to look at the school your child will be given a short English placement test to give us an idea of his/her level of English, which will determine the number of extra lessons required.
If we think that your child has enough English to cope with mainstream classes, but that he/she could do with some extra English to assist this integration, we will suggest EAL lessons. These classes are regular options within the normal curriculum for those who qualify and therefore do not incur an additional charge.
EAL Years 7-11 (age 11-16)
- Pupils in Years 7, 8 and 9 receive one and a half hours of EAL per week.
- Students in Years 10 and 11 receive two and a half hours per week.
- Additional language support may be tailor-made to meet the needs of students whose English is less proficient. These classes carry an additional charge.
Once students progress sufficiently, access to the mainstream curriculum is expected. As soon as applicable, EAL support is reduced and in many cases discontinued.
If you have any additional questions or would like to know more about this programme please contact the Registrar.
A few pupils join in the Junior School speaking little or no English. Staff and other pupils support them so that they quickly gain the competence to follow the curriculum. In the Senior School, teachers ensure that technical terms are fully explained to pupils who speak EAL. Pupils who speak EAL make good progress throughout their time at the school.