English as a second language

New students without a strong background in English are supported by specialist second language English teachers.

We liaise with parents and class teachers to ensure that all students have a happy, positive and successful transition into our school. We work with students by withdrawal from some subject areas until they are able to participate comfortably in all mainstream lessons.

In the Primary School

Students attend small withdrawal classes to learn basic vocabulary, grammar and phonics. Lessons are fun, interactive and give the students confidence to communicate in English. As students develop more English skills, the number of withdrawal lessons decreases and more support is given in the classroom. 

In the Secondary School

Students with limited proficiency in English are taught in withdrawal groups where teaching focuses on the language they will need in their subject lessons. They preview and consolidate the vocabulary and language from their mainstream classes. Students who have developed greater proficiency are supported in class.