What is EAL/D?
English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D) refers to students whose first language or dialect is not Standard Australian English and who require support to develop the English language skills needed for learning and participation at school.
Our EAL/D Learners
At Leppington Public School, we value and celebrate the rich cultural and linguistic diversity within our community. We recognise the strengths, experiences and perspectives that multilingual learners bring to our classrooms and are committed to ensuring all students feel valued, supported and connected.
How We Support Students
EAL/D students are supported through targeted teaching programs designed to develop speaking, listening, reading and writing skills across all areas of the curriculum. Support may include:
- in-class support
- small-group withdrawal programs
- explicit language teaching
- visual supports and scaffolds
- differentiated learning activities
- bilingual and translated resources
- collaborative teaching practices
- individualised learning support.
Student progress is monitored using the EAL/D Learning Progression to ensure teaching is responsive to individual learning needs and aligned with NSW Department of Education expectations.
EAL/D Specialist Teachers
Our EAL/D specialist teachers work closely with classroom teachers to support assessment, planning, teaching and monitoring student progress. Through targeted support and collaborative practices, students are supported to build confidence and proficiency in English while successfully accessing the curriculum.
Support for Families
We value strong partnerships with families and understand the importance of effective communication between home and school. Interpreting and translation support can be arranged when required. We also encourage families to continue using and valuing their home language, as maintaining first language supports English language development and overall learning success.
Multicultural Education and Inclusion
Our school is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment where all students feel respected, safe and connected. Multicultural perspectives are embedded across teaching and learning programs and celebrated through whole-school initiatives and community events that promote intercultural understanding, belonging and respect.
What's been happening...
During Term 2, our newly arrived students have been developing their English language skills through engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Students have focused on learning the alphabet, letter sounds, and everyday vocabulary while building confidence in using English to communicate in the classroom and around the school. Through games, interactive activities, and collaborative learning opportunities, students have been developing the essential language skills needed to participate successfully in school life and connect with their peers.
Our more advanced newly arrived students have been learning about Australia’s unique environment, native animals, and diverse culture while continuing to develop their English language skills. Students actively participate in classroom discussions, ask thoughtful questions, and demonstrate genuine curiosity and enthusiasm for learning about Australia and its natural beauty. Through these learning experiences, students are building both their language proficiency and their understanding of the country they now call home.
Term 3
One of my favourite things about working with our EAL/D students is that learning is never just one way. While we teach our students new English words, they become our teachers too, proudly teaching us words and phrases in their home languages.
There is always lots of laughter when we don’t quite get the pronunciation right, and they patiently help us try again! These little moments are so special. They give our students a chance to be the experts, share a part of who they are and see that their language and culture are genuinely valued at our school.
We may speak different languages, but every day we learn a little more from each other.
Pleasure, Grace and Proud are patiently teaching Ms Moloney how to say, “I am proud of you” in Kinyarwanda. The students have officially become the teachers!
Mrs Beard’s group is getting creative and learning how to use Canva to bring their ideas to life!
Term 3 has been filled with many exciting school events. One of the highlights was the wonderful opportunity for our Aboriginal and New Arrivals Program (NAP) students to participate in the Warami Program at Georges River Environmental Education Centre, a hands-on cultural experience celebrating Aboriginal culture, connection to Country and learning through nature.
Throughout the day, students enjoyed exploring the natural environment and taking part in a variety of fun, hands-on activities, including a river walk, bird watching, boomerang throwing, nature art, storytelling, animal encounters and role-playing Wombat Stew. It was a wonderful opportunity for students to learn more about Aboriginal culture, connect with Country, ask questions, share ideas and enjoy learning together outdoors.
River Walk
Bird Watching
Wombat Stew Making
Nature Art
