Rashda Salamat, Author at Education North Tyneside

Refugee Week 2026: Courage Beyond Borders

Refugee Week 2026 is taking place from 15th – 21st June 2026. It calls on us to: “Come together and share the courage to welcome, to stand for what we believe in, and to celebrate culture and community – to be joyful, imagine new possibilities, dream, heal, and connect.” What does courage really look like? For many…

Eid -ul-Adha: The Festival of Faith, Sacrifice, and Compassion

The morning of Eid ul-Adha arrives quietly, like a soft whisper before dawn. The sky is still painted in shades of blue and silver, and the world seems to hold its breath. Then, slowly, the streets begin to glow with life, children in new clothes, families gathering, hearts full of gratitude, while millions of pilgrims in Makkah complete the…

When Every Child Feels Seen

Belonging Begins With What Children See Around Them Picture a classroom where the books on the shelves, the artwork on the walls, and the stories being told feel familiar. Imagine a classroom where a child can point and say, “That looks like me.” In that moment, something powerful happens. A child feels rooted, feels recognised…

May Day in the UK: A Look at a Much‑Loved Tradition

May Day in the UK is one of those celebrations that just feels cheerful. It arrives every year on 1 May, right when the weather starts to brighten up, and flowers begin to appear everywhere. Even though it’s been around for thousands of years, it still brings a sense of fun, colour, and community Where It All Began…

Chinese Lunar New Year 2026: Welcoming the Year of the Fire Horse

Chinese Lunar New Year 2026: Welcoming the Year of the Fire Horse Chinese New Year, also called Lunar New Year or the Spring Festival, is one of the most joyful and important celebrations in China. It’s a time for family, tradition, and new beginnings. Unlike New Year’s Day on January 1st, the date follows the lunar calendar, which changes every year. In…

Ramadan: A Special Month for Muslims

Ramadan: A Special Month for Muslims Ramadan is one of the most important and sacred months in Islam. It commemorates the time when the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). During this month, Muslims focus on worship, self-discipline, kindness, and gratitude. From dawn to sunset, Muslims fast by avoiding…

Starting from Zero: Teaching English to Absolute Beginner EAL Learners

Teaching English to EAL learners who are absolute beginners requires a carefully sequenced approach that acknowledges their linguistic starting point, cultural background, and cognitive load. Unlike learners with partial proficiency, absolute beginners rely heavily on teacher scaffolding, visual support, and predictable routines. This article critically examines the challenges involved, evaluates effective pedagogical strategies, and outlines the essential content…

Busting Myths About EAL Learners: What You Really Need to Know

Every classroom has learners learning English as an Additional Language (EAL). Teachers and classmates want to help, but sometimes myths and assumptions get in the way. Let’s clear the air and look at what’s true. Myth 1: “If they struggle with English, they’re not smart.” Wrong. EAL learners can be incredibly bright. They just…

The New Writing Framework and EAL learners

A Fresh Start for Teaching Writing Writing remains one of the most complex skills to both teach and learn. Recognising this, the Department for Education (DfE) has introduced a new Writing Framework (July 2025) designed to raise writing standards in primary schools. The framework focuses on explicit teaching, oral rehearsal, and writing with purpose across…

Black History Month: Standing Firm in Power and Pride

Every October, the UK marks Black History Month, a chance to pause, reflect, and celebrate the richness, resilience, and achievements of Black people, both here and across the world. This year’s theme, “Standing Firm in Power and Pride,” is a powerful reminder to recognise the strength, dignity, and influence of Black communities in shaping not…