What the New Ofsted Toolkit Means for EAL Pupils

Ofsted’s new State-Funded School Inspection Toolkit (coming into effect in November 2025), alongside guidance from organisations such as The Bell Foundation, sets out clearer expectations for how schools support pupils who speak English as an Additional Language (EAL). Here’s what you need to know:  Recognise Every Language Counts: Inspectors expect leaders and teachers to value…

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Top Tips for Supporting New EAL Learners

Welcoming a pupil who speaks English as an additional language is a wonderful opportunity to create an inclusive, supportive school environment. Here are ten warm, practical ways to help them feel part of the school community:    1. Assign a Buddy or Mentor Start by pairing the pupil with a friendly and responsible classmate. A…

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National Storytelling Week: Celebrating diversity

National Storytelling Week is taking place in the UK from Saturday 1 February to Sunday 9 February 2025. This is a fantastic opportunity to promote storytelling and literacy while fostering cultural pride and multilingualism. Schools can create a rich, inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and strengthens community bonds by involving parents and students in reading…

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Mental health and well-being of new arrivals 

two children drawing on an easel side by side

What is mental health? Mental health is a state that enables children to cope with the stresses of life, realise their abilities to learn well, work well, and contribute to their community. It is heart-wrenching to consider the immense challenges and losses that many new arrivals have faced before reaching the UK. Mental health plays…

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The Northeast Festival of Language – a celebration

EMTAS logo

The Northeast Festival of Language The Northeast Festival of Language in England Inspires Children through a celebration of poetry, encouraging linguistic diversity. In a multicultural society like England, the Northeast Festival of Language emerges as a beacon of celebration, honouring the linguistic diversity that enriches communities across the region. This unique festival provides a platform…

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