English as an additional language (EAL)

We are committed to promoting a learning and teaching environment for all of our children, one that embeds the values of inclusive educational practices. All children, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, culture or family background should have the opportunity to experience a challenging and enjoyable programme of learning and development.

Guiding Principals

Through a child-centred approach, we aim to ensure that the education our children receive is accessible and relevant to all learners; we instil the importance of respecting each other and celebrating  diversity and difference.

All pupils are provided with effective learning opportunities based on the principles of:

• setting appropriate learning targets and challenges;
• overcoming potential barriers to the learning and assessment of pupils;
• responding to pupils’ diverse and individual learning needs.

Our Provision

Pupils at Suttons are supported with the language and learning demands of curriculum content in terms of key concepts, vocabulary and structure. Teaching staff provide subsequent support through use of visual materials, supportive resources and writing scaffolds, making the English language explicit within the classroom alongside the provision of rich context. We also provide additional interventions for those children who require accelerated progress within their speaking, listening, reading and writing of English. Where appropriate, we use pupils’ first language to support learning, possibly through the provision of dual-language resources, by activating prior knowledge and encouraging further conceptual development.

EAL Support

Suttons Primary School has an English as an Additional Language Teaching Assistant who provides school-based support for children with EAL.  If, after a settling in period of a few weeks, it is decided that involvement is needed, the EAL teaching assistant will liaise with the class teacher to assess, support and monitor the progress of the child, suggest activities and resources when necessary.

"The school caters well for pupils who speak English as an additional
language. Their progress is good in all year groups."

OfSTED