‘To learn a language is to have one more window from which to look at the world’ – Chinese Proverb
EAL stands for English as an Additional Language and is a term used to describe students in UK schools who speak a language other than English as their home language.
Our school has a qualified EAL Coordinator, Mr M Bonney, who oversees the EAL provision at The Dorcan Academy. Mr Bonney works closely with both teaching and support staff in the school to provide the best possible support for our EAL students.
We have a dedicated intervention space in school which is well-resourced and equipped to support the learning of our EAL students.
Examples of how we support our EAL students
New EAL students are warmly welcomed by the school’s EAL Coordinator, who carries out an initial English language assessment to help us understand their needs and plan appropriate support. As part of their induction, students are shown around the school, helped to navigate their timetable, and introduced to key members of staff where possible.
To help them settle in, tutors assign friendly ‘buddies’ who offer support both in lessons and during social times. Throughout their time at the Academy, students’ progress is regularly monitored so we can celebrate successes and identify next steps in their learning.
EAL intervention consists of small‑group English lessons designed to build students’ language skills and strengthen their access to the wider curriculum. Students who are assessed as not yet fully fluent may be invited to attend these sessions to help them develop confidence and proficiency in English.
Each student receives a timetable showing when their intervention lessons take place. The number of sessions varies depending on individual need—for example, students who are new to English may receive up to five hours of support each week. These lessons often take place during normal timetabled classes, and teachers are informed in advance so they can help students catch up on any missed work.
Intervention lessons aim to be engaging, interactive, and supportive, offering a structured space for students to make steady progress. Provision is reviewed at the end of each term, and students are notified of any changes to their timetable ahead of time.
We’re always looking for ways to help students practise their English in a supportive, encouraging, and enjoyable environment. After school, we offer an Academic Prep Club in the library, where a dedicated member of staff is available to provide guidance and support with homework.
Students can also choose from a wide range of after‑school clubs. These give them the chance to try new hobbies, learn new skills, meet others, and have fun – all while naturally building their confidence in English.
We encourage our multilingual students to take additional language GCSE qualifications. To be entered for these exams, students also need to have a good level of English. Previous EAL students at The Dorcan Academy have been entered into GCSE Polish, GCSE Portuguese, and GCSE Greek exams. Students who are interested are welcome to contact Mrs Trussell, our school’s Exams Officer, at ktrussell@dorcan.co.uk to discuss further.
Here are some websites that will help students to practise their English at home:
Here are some websites that may help students to practise their English at home:
Duolingo – http://www.duolingo.com/
English language activities. Sign-up for free!
Games to Learn English – https://www.gamestolearnenglish.com/
Play games and learn English vocabulary.
Breaking News English – https://breakingnewsenglish.com/
Practise your reading skills in English.
Speak Languages – https://www.speaklanguages.com/english/
Build everyday English language skills.
Ello – www.elllo.org/english
Improve your listening skills in English.
For any further queries regarding English as an Additional Language at The Dorcan Academy please contact Mr Bonney (EAL Coordinator) at mbonney@dorcan.co.uk
