Newcomers
Newcomer Support at St. Malachy’s Primary School
At St. Malachy’s P.S., we celebrate diversity and promote language awareness and inclusion. We strive to create a welcoming environment where every pupil feels safe, accepted and valued because this is when learning happens best.
Who is a Newcomer?
A Newcomer is a child whose first language is not English. These pupils are often referred to as EAL learners (English as an Additional Language). We recognise and respect their home languages and cultural backgrounds and we view bilingualism as a strength. Newcomer pupils make a valuable contribution to our school community.
To support them, we provide personalised assistance to help access the curriculum, work closely with the Intercultural Education Service (IES) and monitor progress carefully while also celebrating achievements.
We are proud that many of our children and staff speak languages other than English. To help us learn more about each other’s languages and cultures and to encourage friendships across the school we celebrate our Language of the Month, featuring languages spoken by our pupils.
Why is this important?
- It gives bilingual children the chance to share and showcase their language skills.
- It enhances the status and confidence of bilingual learners.
- It shows respect for all languages and cultures within our school.
- It encourages parents to be actively involved in their child’s learning.
- It broadens the language awareness and skills of all pupils and staff.
Together, we embrace the richness of our diverse school community and ensure that every child feels valued and included.
Newcomer Links for Students and their Families:
https://www.wordsworthprimary.co.uk/page/?title=EAL&pid=181
BBC Learning English - BBC Learning English - Homepage
Translations – Children and Young People’s Strategic Partnership (CYPSP) (hscni.net)
Online ESL Games (gamestolearnenglish.com)
Home | LearnEnglish Kids (britishcouncil.org)
Maths Games & Exercises for EAL Learners (ealhighland.org.uk)
Fun English Games for Kids - Free Teaching Resources Online
Free ESL Worksheets, English Teaching Materials, ESL Lesson Plans (esl-galaxy.com)
Activities Around Stories for EYFS and KS1 for Registered Users (collaborativelearning.org)
Activities for ESL/EFL Students (English Study) (a4esl.org)
EAL Programme - The Bell Foundation (bell-foundation.org.uk)
