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Learning Support

Our aim is to ensure the highest possible achievement for all students, from the full spectrum of communities that we serve. Our whole-school ethos highly values the range of skills and experience students bring to us.

Context

The school is proud of its diverse profile

• 57% speak a language other than English at home. Within this proportion, the majority are UK born. In terms of English language support, we cater mainly to the needs of those who have arrived in the UK in the last 2 years.

• 64 languages are spoken within the school.

 English for Beginners

  •  Bilingual dictionaries, Beginners Homework Pack and self-study grammar and vocabulary books are given to students on arrival. 
  •  Enrolment in a web-based software program, Lexia, to support English Language Learning.
  •  Support from a Teaching Assistant in mainstream classes where possible.
  •  Homework support at lunchtime and after school.
  • Follow-up meetings with our Bilingual Student Coordinator.

For parents of students who are beginners to English: it is worth investing in a good quality electronic bilingual dictionary. As a school, we do provide printed bilingual dictionaries but electronic ones have the advantage of being lightweight and translation is quicker.

Recommended Websites and Apps to Support English Language Learning

• Lexia. Students will be given a login and password if needed and can use this program on most devices as long as they can access the internet. 

• https://learnenglishteens.britishcouncil.org/content Find out your English level.

•  https://learnenglishteens.britishcouncil.org/  An excellent resource, including animated stories, games and quizzes. For a range of free, printable worksheets, go to the following page: https://learnenglishteens.britishcouncil.org/skills

• https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/ An excellent resource for adults learning English, similar in format to the British council website for teens above.

• https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/apps Learn English on your mobile device.

• https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/ Learn English on the BBC website.

• https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/app Learn English on your mobile device.

• http://www.usingenglish.com/handouts/  Good online and printable exercises for different levels.

Local Community Organisations offering advice, support and courses for parents

• https://www.theparenthouse.org.uk/ The Parent House offers a free range of courses for parents and a registered crèche is also available to enable parents with young children to attend. Courses include ESOL classes and developing parenting skills..

• https://www.coram.org.uk/ Coram offers free support and advice for parents. In particular, Coram works with parents of teenagers exhibiting challenging behaviour, including group workshops, one-to-one support and telephone helplines.

• https://brandon-centre.org.uk/ The Brandon Centre gives free help, advice and counselling to young people under the age of 25. It also delivers free parenting programmes to parents struggling with the behaviour of their teenage children.

Adult Community Learning

https://adultlearning.islington.gov.uk/ Sign up here for free courses. If you need help choosing which course is right for you, you can get 1-2-1 information, advice and guidance from a qualified advisor to help you move forward into work or further training by calling, text or WhatsApp 07734 777 466. 

Why take one of these courses? They could help you develop your English or Maths, improve your computer skills, support your child with their homework, gain confidence, prepare for a college course or get a new job.

Who are they for? The courses are for Islington residents or parents with children in Islington schools. You must be 19 or over, unemployed, or low-waged and receiving benefits.

How to sign up Go along to your local learning centre during enrolment week where friendly staff will check your skills and advise which course is right for you. You can also contact the venue or go along to the drop-in sessions at your local learning

centre to sign up for courses. The staff will discuss any questions or support you may need, such as childcare or access requirements.

Online Safety Information for parents, carers and young people

https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/ Thinkuknow is the education programme from NCA-CEOP, a UK organisation which protects children both online and offline.

Going Back to School Guide in 17 Different Languages

The Children’s Commissioner for England (CCO) has published a guide for children returning to school after lockdown. The guide includes information on some of the changes that children might see when they go back to school, as well as tips on what to do if they are feeling worried or nervous. 

The Bell Foundation, with the permission of the CCO, has adapted this guide for learners who use English as an Additional Language (EAL). It is available in English and in the 17 most commonly spoken languages in English schools.