EAL

From the moment an international pupil puts on the Clayesmore uniform, they become a fully integrated member of the school community. We have high expectations of all our pupils and are committed to helping each individual develop the confidence, language skills and independence needed to succeed in a British boarding school environment.

Our role is both academic and pastoral. We provide tailored support to help pupils access a curriculum designed primarily for first-language English speakers, while also preparing pupils for internationally recognised English language qualifications where appropriate.

This support is built on many years of experience welcoming international pupils into the Clayesmore community. Strong pastoral care, close communication with families, integration into boarding and school life, and personalised academic guidance all work together to ensure pupils feel supported throughout their journey.

The EAL Department supports pupils across both the Prep and Senior School. Examination preparation ranges from Cambridge Young Learners qualifications, such as A1 Movers, through to IGCSE English as a Second Language, IELTS, and other Cambridge English qualifications. We aim for pupils who study with us for more than two terms to leave Clayesmore with an internationally recognised English language qualification.

On arrival, pupils are assessed using the Oxford Online Placement Test, enabling us to identify the most appropriate level of support quickly and accurately. This helps us determine whether a pupil would benefit from EAL lessons or is ready to access mainstream English classes alongside British pupils.

Where possible, EAL lessons are carefully timetabled to minimise disruption to core academic subjects. In the Senior School, lessons may take place during Modern Foreign Language lessons or supervised study periods, while IGCSE English as a Second Language is taught in place of GCSE English Language. Classes are small, allowing for personalised attention and strong pupil-teacher relationships.

Beyond timetabled lessons, the EAL Department is always available to provide additional guidance and support, particularly in the lead-up to examinations or at times when pupils may need extra encouragement.

We understand the unique triple challenges international pupils may face: adapting to a new culture, developing academic English skills, and studying within a different education system. Every year we are impressed by the resilience, determination and progress shown by our international pupils, and we greatly value the trust families place in us and the sacrifices when choosing Clayesmore.

We also believe it is important for pupils to maintain and value their first language and cultural identity while developing fluency in English. Rather than semi-lingualism, true bilingualism is a strength, and we encourage pupils to continue developing their home language alongside their English studies.

Communication between school and home is an important part of every pupil’s success, and we warmly encourage parents and guardians to stay in regular contact with the EAL Department throughout their child’s time at Clayesmore. EAL classes are a charged extra.