English as an Additional Language - EAL

As English is not the mother-tongue of a large proportion of our pupils, a wide range of proficiency in English exists within the School, especially among newcomers and younger children.

The School provides support for non-English mother-tongue students, each according to his/her needs. The programme aims to develop the students’ English proficiency as rapidly as possible to permit full participation in all academic and social aspects of school life.

Entering the EAL Programme

Before a new student arrives, parents should complete the Language Profile section of the ISL Application Form.

Students whose mother-tongue is not English will be assessed by the EAL teachers prior to joining the School and during the first few days of school. Students are tested on the four components of language both speaking and listening, and when appropriate, reading and writing.

Decisions concerning entry into the programme are made by the relevant section principal and the EAL teacher, in consultation with the homeroom teacher (and/or subject teachers).

Student progress within the EAL programme will be regularly reported to and monitored by the EAL teachers, classroom/subject teachers and relevant school principals.

Exit from the EAL Programme

The student must, in the opinion of the classroom/subject teachers and the EAL teachers, have reached the general level of attainment for that year.

Cumulative evaluation and final assessment are carried out by the EAL teacher to give an indication of the general level of attainment for that year.

Decisions concerning exit from the programme are made by the relevant section principal and the EAL teacher, in consultation with the homeroom teacher (and/or subject teachers).