English as an Additional Language (GCSE)

Head Of Department: Mrs D Guerrero
Contact Details: dkg@felsted.org  

 

Pupils who do not speak English as a first language, and who are identified as needing additional English language support, are advised, when accepted to the School, to choose EAL as one of their optional GCSE subjects. Although this will result in one fewer GCSE, it is recommended if pupils are to achieve their potential in the mainstream curriculum. Pupils’ needs are assessed and addressed through assessments and the implementation of Individual Learning Plans. The EAL Department also provides excellent pastoral care for those pupils living away from home in a new country.  

Pupils come to 3 EAL lessons a week and these include:

Support with coursework for other subjects (specifically IGCSE English as a  First Language)
Help with subject revision techniques for exams
Skills development in English (Reading, Writing, Speaking & Listening)
Developing academic writing skills

During the lessons some pupils may also work towards taking an external Cambridge English language exam – typically Cambridge First For Schools or Cambridge C1 Advanced. These exams test pupils in the skills of Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking and their knowledge of the Use of English (grammar and vocabulary). The exams are taken at a local examination centre, when the pupils are ready, and are internationally recognised. They are excellent additional qualifications to have and are valid for life.  

The C1 exam is recognised by many universities as proof of English qualification and is therefore valid for entry to UK universities in the USA, Canada, New Zealand and Australia.  There is an additional charge for these exams and the EAL Department will contact parents/guardians to discuss if we feel an exam would be suitable for the pupil.

EAL Drop in Sessions:

All EAL students are welcome to attend the weekly EAL drop in evening session (during Prep time), for support with written work and any other language development work relevant to students’ individual needs.

There are no additional charges for EAL GCSE pupils unless further one to one tuition is needed.

We are dedicated to internationalism at Felsted and do all we can to ensure that each pupil achieves their full potential both academically and socially during their time at the School.

It is our belief that the EAL support offered at Felsted will maximise their chances of this.