ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE
Support at The British School of Brussels
A guide for parents
WELCOME TO EAL AT THE BRITISH SCHOOL OF BRUSSELS
We know that starting a new school, especially in a new language, can be a big step for you and your child. Our English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme is designed to help children feel confident, included, and ready to take part in lessons as soon as possible. This guide will explain how we support children at each stage, how you can stay informed, and where to find extra help if needed.
FIRST STEPS FOR EVERY LEARNER
Every child is welcomed, whatever their level of English. Our teachers use play, hands-on activities, and plenty of friendly encouragement, especially for younger children.
In Primary, your child will learn through play and daily routines, gradually building the vocabulary and understanding they need.
For older students, extra English lessons are part of their timetable. If a child needs more support, they may study English instead of a second foreign language such as Dutch, German, or Spanish. Once confident, they may choose to add another language.
COMMUNICATION WITH PARENTS
We want you to feel involved in your child’s progress. You will receive regular updates about how your child is doing and be able to discuss their progress with teachers.
SUPPORT PATHWAYS AND TRANSITIONS
Support is personalised and evolves as your child becomes more confident. Children may move between groups or types of support depending on their needs and progress.
SOCIAL INTEGRATION AND WELLBEING
Your child’s happiness at school is of paramount importance to us. We help every student make friends and feel part of the school community. There are buddy systems, clubs, and activities to help children settle quickly.
EAL IN PRIMARY (EARLY YEARS TO YEAR 6)
In Early Years, children learn English alongside their classmates with support from an EAL teacher. In Years 1 and 2, EAL lessons replace French, and children who progress join French lessons.
Older children learn through either full or partial immersion: full immersion means most of the day is spent learning English, while partial immersion allows time with the main class. Children move between these as their skills develop.
EAL IN SECONDARY (YEARS 7 TO 13)
Students are placed in small groups matched to their age and level of English. Beginners focus on practical communication and building confidence. As they improve, they join groups that work on more advanced reading, writing, and vocabulary. Students join regular lessons as soon as they are ready. If extra help is needed with academic writing or coursework, especially in Years 12 and 13, dedicated sessions are available.
TRACKING PROGRESS AND ASSESSMENT
Teachers use continuous assessment to understand your child’s development in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Progress is tracked each term and linked to recognised language levels. You will receive clear, regular feedback about your child’s progress.
OUT-OF-CLASS SUPPORT
Extra help is available outside lessons, including homework clubs, after-school sessions, and access to resources for independent study.
DURATION OF SUPPORT
Every child is different, but as a guide, most children move to full lessons relatively quickly once their English improves. Progress is regularly reviewed, and parents are kept informed.
OTHER LANGUAGE OPTIONS AND PATHWAYS
All students take French, with classes for beginners and catch-up sessions for those who join later in the year. As your child’s English improves, they may be able to study other languages too.
CONCLUSION
The EAL team is here to make sure your child feels welcome and has every opportunity to succeed at The British School of Brussels. If you have any questions, or would like more information, please contact our EAL team via admissions@britishschool.be
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does my child need a certain level of English to join?
No, we welcome students of all levels. Support is available from day one.
Will my child be tested before entry?
We do not have a formal assessment for younger (Primary-aged) children. Through the very first interactions and activities in class, our teachers will gather a sense of your child’s language background so that can implement the right support. Older students may be asked to complete series of short informal language activities to help place them in the correct group. This is not a pass or fail and is designed to ensure that teaching staff can assess how much support they will need in order to be able to access the curriculum.
How quickly will my child start receiving support?
Support begins straight away in Primary. In Secondary, assessment is part of the admissions process and support starts as soon as your child joins.
Will my child fall behind because of English support?
No, missing some lessons is temporary and helps build skills for future success. Adjustments are reviewed regularly.
How long will it take for my child to settle?
Progress varies, but children often gain confidence quickly. Our goal is to ensure that they are supported sufficiently, and that change is at a pace that works for them.
Can my child gain a qualification in English?
Yes, students in Year 10 can take the Cambridge IGCSE in English as a Second Language.
GLOSSARY OF KEY TERMS
EAL
English as an Additional Language
Immersion
Intensive English lessons in place of some regular classes
Mainstream
Regular school lessons with peers
Partial immersion
Some intensive English lessons, sometime in the main class
Progress tracker
Regular summary of your child’s language development
www.britishschool.be email: admissions@britishschool.be