At Maple Tree Primary School we aim to ensure that we meet all the needs of the children who are learning English as an additional language. We currently have 5%  of pupils who have English as an additional language. There are 4 different languages spoken altogether, including Polish, Romanian, Slovakian and English.

We value and welcome the cultural, linguistic and educational experiences that pupils with EAL bring to the school. Our aim is to help pupils become confident and fluent in speaking, listening, reading and writing in the English language in order to fulfil their academic potential.

When a new pupil arrives in the school, they are settled into their new class and carefully guided through their first days as sometimes this can be quite daunting. We match them with a “buddy” who speaks their home language, wherever possible. 

All pupils follow the school curriculum and resources are provided by the school depending on the pupil’s ages and level of learning. We have a number of members of staff who speak more than one language who will support where they can and, if appropriate, support is provided in the classroom by a TA. In addition, opportunities are provided for pupils to engage in speaking and listening activities with peers and adults. 

We are hoping to build up a bank of volunteer translators who are willing to help with translations at parents evening etc. If you are able to help with translation into another language, please do let the school office know.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you require further information regarding our provision for pupils learning English as an Additional Language (EAL).

Our EAL Leader is Mrs Chris Pond.