Congratulations - EAL Winner
Pillgwenlly Primary School
Judges Comments
Pillgwenlly School is set in an area that used to be the old docks of Newport. It is an area of evolving multi cultural settlement with many languages being spoken in the classrooms.
The judges felt that the schools inclusive motto ‘we play, learn and work together’ has helped develop a school ethos where cultural acceptance is the norm. The school currently has around 32 languages spoken and takes every opportunity to support non English language speakers with first hand experiences. They recognise and accept the benefits of home language use with induction and registration carried out in their first language prior to joining familiar spoken language groups to help develop confidence and security. The schools unique encompassing of parents who are invited to attend home language coffee mornings, helps integrate home school life reassuring parents that their children are safe and supported. The school uses bilingual signs and resources and children are encouraged to take opportunities to talk to others in their home language. Every child is valued for their belief and praise for their abilities.
EAL pupils are supported in the class and encouraged to take part in all activities by using problem solving questions that require discussion in English language they are encouraged to develop at their own rate ranging from silent periods and almost parrot style copying to fluency. The judges felt this class understood the needs of its learners and used every opportunity and their wealth of skills to achieve linguistic success.
Pillgwenlly Primary School, Capel Crescent, Pillgwenlly, Newport, Gwent
