Bilingual Students

Our students come from many backgrounds and speak many languages. They are assessed as soon as they join QK and appropriate help is provided by the English as an Additional Language (EAL) team. This may range from intensive lessons in English to cultural support to help adjusting to a British way of life. As their English improves, students are re-assessed until they are fully competent in the language. The five Stages summarised here are used widely throughout London.

Students just starting to learn English are at Stage 1. They are able to take part in group activities such as games but they cannot work independently in English. Some reading and writing can be achieved with support but they are unwilling to speak English.

By Stage 2, students are confident in moving between their home language and English. They understand spoken English - in lessons if supported - and can use English to communicate. They are able to use tenses and have a growing vocabulary. Their reading and writing is progressing.

Students at Stage 3 can understand and use English in most classroom and social situations, communicating effectively with teachers and other students. They can read independently but may need help with technical terms and unfamiliar cultural references.

Stage 4 students have reached a high standard but may often think in their home language rather than in English, particularly when complex ideas are being discussed. However, they have no difficulty in moving between languages.

There is no discernible difference between bi-lingual students who are at Stage 5 and those of the same age whose first language is English.

A large proportion of the bi-lingual students at QK are at this stage.