The Department for Education (DfE) defines a pupil as having English as an Additional Language (EAL) if their first language is not English, meaning they have been exposed to another language during early development and continue to be exposed to it in their home or community. This definition includes children born in the UK or abroad, regardless of their fluency in English. 

Key aspects of the DfE's EAL definition:

• Exposure to another language: A child is considered EAL if they were exposed to a language other than English during their early development.
• Continued exposure: This exposure to the non-English language must continue in their home or community.
• Irrespective of English proficiency: The definition applies whether or not the child is fluent in English.
• Origin of the pupil: The definition applies to pupils born in the UK and those who arrive from other countries.
• Purpose: This classification is used in the School Census to identify pupils and can trigger funding for schools to support their language development

At Hopwood, we are proud to support children who have English as an Additional Language (EAL). We provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and encouraged to achieve their best. Our staff use a range of strategies to help EAL learners, including visual aids, peer support, bilingual resources, and targeted language activities. We work closely with families to celebrate home languages and cultures, while helping children develop the confidence and skills they need to communicate effectively in English. By creating a supportive atmosphere and offering tailored learning opportunities, we ensure that all pupils can thrive academically and socially.

We recognise that a pupil's ability to thrive is linked to an inclusive environment where they feel valued and confident. As with other groups of learners, our teachers adapt their lessons to make sure that all learners can access the learning provided.

Useful websites

https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/

https://learnenglishkids.britishcouncil.org/

• Keeping Safe Online in other languages for our EAL families 

​​​​​​​Information and advice from childnet for parents and carers on keeping young people safe online in the following languages: English, Arabic, Bengali, Hindi, Polish, Punjabi, Somali, Spanish, Turkish, Urdu, Vietnamese and Welsh.