What does EAL look like at Trinity School?

Our EAL students are initially tested using the British Council Online English Level Test and/or the Cambridge English Language Level Test. We test for their overall proficiency in English, and based on their level, initial meetings with students and feedback from teachers, we then determine whether they will need extra support in school to improve their proficiency.

Any student who is above B1 level of proficiency (CEFR levels – B1 intermediate) means they will be proficient in the language enough so that they can follow the curriculum closely, and therefore, interventions are not needed. Natural progression in school over the years will ensure that students at B1 level and above, can develop fluency in the language without the need for weekly intervention.

What support will my child get?

If your child is at a level below B1 – this would be A1 or A2 – this means that they are New to English, or Beginners/Elementary. This would show as: very limited to no vocabulary knowledge, no grammatical structures, a lack of basic skills in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Understanding the English language and other factors.

These children will work closely with Miss Carvalho (our EAL Coordinator) weekly, with interventions focusing on individual proficiency needs, in order to close those knowledge gaps and ensure that they are not at a disadvantage due to a language barrier. Individual plans for support for your child can be discussed separately by contacting Miss Carvalho.

How will my child feel included?

At Trinity School we encourage inclusivity and our EAL students and parents can rest assured in the knowledge that they can take part in any extracurricular activities, they can attend Culture Club where different countries and cultures are celebrated, being part of a House will allow them to get involved in House competitions where they’ll make connections and meet new people, and every member of staff is always happy to provide any support needed. Tutors and Heads of Houses, as well as the Headteacher will ensure the student feels included and confident in school, and through a Pupil Introduction Card, the student can easily ask for help without much need to speak the language.

Links: BCOELT - https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/english-levels/online-english-level-test CELLT - https://www.cambridgeenglish.org/test-your-english/

Contact details: Miss C Carvalho – EAL Coordinator ccarvalho@trinity.newburyacademytrust.org

Mrs S Kemp – SENDco skemp@trinity.newburyacademytrust.org