English as an Additional Language (GCSE)

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

 

Years 10 -11

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

Year 10-11 IGCSE English as a Second Language

Some pupils who do not speak English as their first language may be advised to choose the IGCSE English as a Second Language course and exam, rather than the IGCSE First Language course and exams in Language and Literature. This course is provided by the EAL Department. The exam consists of 4 papers: Reading, Listening, Writing & Speaking and leads to an IGCSE in English as a Second Language. Pupils would not do an additional IGCSE English Literature exam. The IGCSE English as a Second Language exam is modular, meaning that it can be taken at various points during the year, and modules can be retaken if a sufficient grade is not achieved. Most English speaking university courses will accept this exam as proof of English proficiency.

Some EAL pupils may therefore have EAL lessons as well as IGCSE English as a Second Language lessons with the EAL Department.

There is no extra charge for the IGCSE English as a Second Language course.
 

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.