English as an Additional Language
The Henry Beaufort School is a diverse, international community with over twenty different languages spoken by its staff and students.
Approximately 50 students use English as an Additional Language (EAL), with half coming from Nepal and linked with the Ghurkha Regiment based in Winchester. Other students come from a broad range of countries and backgrounds, including Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, Ivory Coast, the US, Brazil, Poland, France, Spain, and Europe.
Levels of proficiency in English vary enormously. Some students have completed all or most of their schooling in English, while other students are in the early stages of learning the language. As part of Henry Beaufort School’s commitment to include and encourage all students to excel, all our teaching staff receive training on how to teach, monitor, and assess bilingual students. We also offer a club called LinC - Languages in Curriculum aimed at raising the levels of English proficiency used in the curriculum.
Henry Beaufort School works closely with Hampshire Ethnic Minority and Traveller's Achievement Service (HEMTAS), a service which aims to support schools and families across Hampshire in raising ethnic minority achievement. This is done through bilingual assistance, projects such as the Young Interpreter Scheme, and ongoing training. The school funds training for Teaching Assistants to complete SEAL (Supporting English as an Additional Language), and also supports teaching staff to undertake Masters level study of TEAL (Teaching English as an Additional Language). As a result, students who use English as an additional language have performed well across the board, both in class and in GCSE examinations. Students with EAL are also encouraged to take GCSE or A level examinations early in the their first language where possible.
For any further information or assistance with EAL students, please contact:
Mrs Y Hallett email: yin.hallett@staff.beaufort.hants.sch.uk
Alternatively, you can find out more information about the Hampshire Ethnic Minority and Traveller Achievement Service (HEMTAS) by visiting www3.hants.gov.uk/education/ema.htm
