English as an Additional Language

National Strategies Managed Programmes

Since 2003 some key initiatives have been introduced. The first of these was an extensive EAL programme delivered through the Primary National Strategy involving a package of professional developments for mainstream staff. Local Authorities (LAs) were invited to join this initiative as associates, 21 of which were targeted. Over 70 LAs participated. Professional development materials on EAL have been developed as part of this initiative.

A Secondary National Strategy for EAL was launched in June 2006 which builds on the work at primary to promote awareness of EAL pedagogy in secondary schools.  The work of the programme has been designed to support improvement in the standards of attainment in English and mathematics of bilingual learners by drawing on, developing and disseminating existing knowledge and understanding of bilingualism, and EAL pedagogy and practice.

Cross phase support and guidance is available through the National Strategies' managed New Arrivals Excellence Programme (NAEP). Resources produced by the National Strategies offer guidance on the induction and integration of newly-arrived pupils learning English as an additional language (EAL) and to build capacity in local authorities and schools. One resource - a DVD and accompanying booklet of case studies - shows how a number of primary and secondary schools have responded creatively to meet the needs of newly-arrived pupils and their families. All the resources can be found on the National Strategies website.