English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Supporting Students on Their English Language Journey

Learning in a new language is both exciting and challenging. At NIS, we believe that multilingualism is a strength and that students who develop proficiency in more than one language gain valuable skills and perspectives that benefit them throughout their lives.

Students who are learning English are capable thinkers, problem-solvers, and learners. Our role is to help them develop the language skills they need to access learning, express their ideas, and participate confidently in school life.

Through a combination of classroom support, targeted language instruction, and collaboration with families, our EAL team helps students grow as English users while continuing to thrive academically and socially.

Understanding English Language Requirements

We know families often have questions about English language proficiency and whether NIS is the right fit for their child. Our Applying to NIS page explains our admissions process and language expectations.

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Multilingualism as a Strength

At NIS, we celebrate the many languages and cultures represented within our community.

Learning English does not mean giving up a student's home language or cultural identity. We encourage students to maintain and develop their first language while building proficiency in English, recognizing that multilingual learners bring valuable perspectives that enrich our entire school community.

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English language development does not happen only during EAL lessons. It happens throughout the school day as students
engage in inquiry, collaborate with classmates, read, write, discuss ideas, and participate in learning across all subject areas.

Teachers are trained to support language development within their classrooms, ensuring students can access grade-level learning while continuing to build their English proficiency.

Our Approach to English Language Learning

We recognize that language acquisition takes time and that every student progresses at their own pace. Our EAL program focuses on helping students:

Develop confidence using English
Build academic vocabulary and language skills
Strengthen reading and writing abilities
Improve listening and speaking skills
Access learning across all subject areas

Support is designed to help students participate meaningfully in classroom learning while steadily developing their English proficiency.

EAL in Primary School (Grades 1-5)

In the Primary School, language learning is closely connected to classroom learning and Units of Inquiry. Students may receive support through:

Classroom-based support alongside their homeroom teacher
Small-group instruction
Targeted reading and writing interventions
Phonics support
Guided reading support

Depending on their level of English proficiency, students may receive either targeted support or more intensive language support. Support is delivered through a combination of classroom collaboration and small-group instruction designed to build confidence and independence.

EAL in Secondary School (Grades 6-12)

As students move into secondary school, language demands become increasingly complex. Students must learn not only everyday English but also the academic language needed to succeed across subjects. At these grade levels, support focuses on:

Academic vocabulary
Reading comprehension
Subject-specific language
Writing skills
Communication and discussion skills

Students may receive support within their classes, through specialized English Language Acquisition courses, or through more intensive support designed to help them access the MYP and Diploma Programme curriculum successfully.

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Personalized Levels of Support

Students receive different levels of support depending on their English proficiency and learning needs.

EAL Support

Students who can communicate effectively in English but continue to need assistance with academic language, reading, writing, or comprehension receive targeted support based on their individual needs.

EAL Intensive

Students who are newer to English or require more significant support receive more frequent intervention. This may include small-group instruction, additional language development sessions, classroom support, and targeted assistance in academic subjects.

The goal is always to provide the right level of support while helping students become increasingly independent and confident learners.

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Partnering With Families

Language learning is a journey that involves students, teachers, and families working together.

We believe that strong communication and partnership with families are essential to student success. Parents are kept informed of progress and work closely with teachers and EAL specialists to support their child's language development.

Together, we help students build the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to succeed in an English-language learning environment.

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