St.Stephen's School

EAL: English as an Additional Language

At St Stephen’s, we value and celebrate the diversity of languages and cultures in our community. We know that pupils learn best when they feel safe, accepted and valued—and that is especially important when they are learning English in addition to their home language.

To support excellent outcomes and help children acquire English more rapidly, we use a wide range of strategies, both in class and across the school.

We also encourage parents to explore fun and free online tools with their children. Short daily activities (10–15 minutes), done together, can make a big difference to vocabulary, confidence, and fluency.

Our provision for EAL learners

Pupils who are learning English as an additional language have a dual task: to learn English as a language and to learn through English. Because of this, our EAL provision is woven through the mainstream curriculum, using it as the context for language development. Key elements include:

  • Specialist teaching support for newer arrivals through our New to English programme, delivered by the EAL Team and HLTA(s).
  • Ongoing scaffolding for more advanced learners, using speaking/writing frames, role-play, and drama techniques.
  • Deliberate vocabulary teaching through topic glossaries, word mats, and classroom displays.
  • Monitoring attainment and progress with a focus on vocabulary growth.
  • Assessing proficiency in English and first-language literacy to understand prior knowledge and experience.
  • Regular training for all staff in EAL strategies.
  • Ensuring all lessons are context-rich, immersive, and meaningful.

Support for families: Websites

These websites are safe, free, and designed to help children learn English in fun and engaging ways:

  • Bell Foundation – Guidance, strategies, and resources for supporting EAL children.
  • British Council – LearnEnglish Kids – Free games, songs, stories, and activities. Parents can also find advice, videos, and tips for supporting English at home.
  • British Council – Games – Interactive online games for vocabulary, grammar, and listening.
  • Anglomaniacy – Online lessons, printable worksheets, songs and games designed for children learning English as an additional language.
  • Breaking News English – Reading and listening activities based on real news stories, with 7 different levels to suit learners.
  • Games to Learn English – Simple online games for practicing vocabulary and grammar.
  • Twinkl EAL Resources – A wide range of downloadable and multilingual resources. (Free trial available.)
  • Duolingo – A free, gamified language-learning platform. Good for building vocabulary and sentence structure.

Support for families: Apps

Apps are a great way to practise English in short bursts on a phone or tablet.

  • FlashAcademy – Interactive app with vocabulary in 48 languages. Some content is free; full access requires subscription.
  • British Council Apps – Fun family-friendly apps with games, stories, podcasts, and quizzes.
  • TalkEnglish App – Conversation practice through listening and speaking exercises.

Tips for parents

  • Little and often: 10–15 minutes a day is more effective than long sessions once a week.
  • Do it together: Playing games or listening to stories with your child helps them feel supported and motivated.
  • Keep home language strong: Talk, read, and play in your home language too—this helps children learn English faster.
  • Celebrate progress: Notice and praise every new word or sentence your child uses.

If you would like advice on which resources are best for your child’s stage of English, please speak to our EAL Coordinator, Jenna Cooke.