Welcome to the new EAL page to all our families who speak English as an additional language.
English as an additional language (EAL) refers to learners whose first language is not English. (Ofsted).
We love and greatly value the increasing diversity of St Michael's Cof E Primary School Community. Our EAL learners bring with them a wealth of culture and experiences from different countries that they can share with others. They can help their peers understand different cultures, people, and languages from different countries.
Valuing the Languages and Cultures
St Michael’s though not currently a UNICEF Rights Respecting School, however, do believe in the articles that underpin the EAL Policy for pupils with English as an Additional Language:
Article 3 (best interests of the child) The best interests of the child must be a top priority in all decisions and actions that affect children.
Article 12 (respect for the views of the child) Every child has the right to express their views, feelings and wishes in all matters affecting them, and to have their views considered and taken seriously. This right always applies, for example during immigration proceedings, housing decisions or the child’s day-to-day home life.
Article 13 (freedom of expression) Every child must be free to express their thoughts and opinions and to access all kinds of information, as long as it is within the law.
Article 29 (goals of education) Education must develop every child’s personality, talents, and abilities to the full. It must encourage the child’s respect for human rights, as well as respect for their parents, their own and other cultures, and the environment.
Article 30 (children from minority or indigenous groups) Every child has the right to learn and use the language, customs, and religion of their family, whether they are shared by the majority of the people in the country where they live.
In accordance with these Articles, St Michael’s CofE Primary School values every child’s language and culture; and it promotes communication in home languages to support a deeper understanding of the learning.
