ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)
Traditions and cultural awareness are very important in language acquisition. In the ESOL Department, we help pupils achieve their full potential in using English for everyday, social, academic and professional purposes. No one can predict which aspect of a language will be important to him or her in the future. Although English is a world language, dialect, pronunciation and usage differ greatly, often having an unsettling effect on pupils as they begin their studies in another English speaking country.
The Department is heavily involved with the induction of pupils from overseas, regardless of their level of English. Assessment takes place before and on arrival and pupils are placed on a programme relevant to their needs and our expectations. International Week is an important event in the School year where pupils explore their own culture as well as practise skills needed in the real world.
The Department is situated in the Kelvin Building and comprises an office, study/resources area, main classroom for approximately 10 pupils and a smaller classroom for groups of up to 6 pupils. In March 2001, The HMC Inspection commended the Department for its work.
The full programme consists of up to three periods per week in small groups, plus afternoon or evening clinics. The monitoring, cultural awareness and enrichment programmes give opportunities for one-to-one attention (There is an additional charge made for pupils on the ESOL programme).
Major Topics Years 7 - 11
Concentrating on the key areas of reading, writing, listening, speaking and use of English, pupils are introduced to topics that will help them achieve the required ESOL and GCSE examination results needed for further study.
Sixth Form
This includes induction, assessment and implementation of examinations necessary for matriculation into higher education. All ESOL pupils take IELTS (minimum entry requirement Academic Band 6.0) and work at proficiency level with some opting to do AS English Language.
Staff
Mrs Ann Muston BEd Hons
Ms Lynne Clark BA Hons
Mrs Vijaya Rodger BA Hons