English as an Additional Language (EAL) | EYFS

EYFS definition

English as an additional language (EAL) describes learning or using English alongside another home language. In the EYFS, children described as having EAL may be new to English or already confident multilingual communicators. The term does not indicate one level of ability or support need.

How do home languages fit?

Children bring knowledge, relationships and experiences through their home languages. These remain valuable as English develops.

Conversations with families can reveal the languages a child understands and uses, familiar words or songs, and how they communicate in different situations. Confidence may vary between people and places.

What might support look like?

An adult pairs a familiar routine with objects, pictures and a short explanation in English. A family shares a song or a useful phrase in the child’s home language. During play, the adult models relevant words and leaves time for the child to contribute.

Participation can include gesture, action and home-language responses as well as English.

Is EAL a special educational need?

EAL is not, by itself, a special educational need. A child can have both EAL and SEND, but learning English alone is not evidence of SEND.

When concerns arise, adults consider the child’s wider development and communication across languages, drawing on family knowledge and appropriate professional advice.

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