At River Gum Primary School, our EAL program supports students who are learning English as an additional language. The program focuses on building both language skills and background knowledge, helping students access the full curriculum with confidence.
Through a carefully designed EAL learning lens, students engage in experiences and lessons that expand their knowledge of the world, connect to their prior experiences, and develop the vocabulary and language structures they need to participate fully in classroom learning. Our approach ensures that students are not just learning English in isolation but are supported to understand and engage with rich content across all subjects.
Research and evidence show that explicitly building background knowledge alongside language development significantly improves comprehension, vocabulary acquisition, and academic achievement for EAL learners. By integrating language learning with meaningful, knowledge-rich contexts, students gain the skills and confidence to succeed in both English and their broader learning journey.
The EAL program at River Gum is tailored to each student’s level and needs, providing targeted support while promoting curiosity, engagement, and a sense of belonging in the classroom.
