English Language Learners at Aidanfield Christian School
Welcome to the ESOL programme at Aidanfield Christian School!
ESOL stands for English for Speakers of Other Languages and this programme is
designed to support your child to learn English so that they can participate in
the New Zealand curriculum at our school. The programme offers flexible in class
and individual support, developing the four modes of English language –
listening, speaking, reading and writing. A range of age-appropriate strategies
are used, for example language games for younger students and essay writing
tasks for senior students. Vocabulary and grammar are taught as an integrated
part of language learning.
The programme is well resourced, with its own teaching space. Digital technology
is used frequently to accelerate and support language acquisition. Targeted
support for new learners includes initial testing to establish language learning
needs and communication with the student’s family.
Independent boxes are provided for use by students in the classroom, as
required.
Staff
Judith Anthony is the ESOL teacher and International Student Coordinator. She is
an experienced classroom teacher who has gained university qualifications in
English Language teaching, and is continuing research in this area. She can be
contacted by email at judith.anthony@aidanfield.school.nz . In addition a
bilingual Chinese speaking teacher aide is available for very new learners of
English.
Assessment
Assessment of ESOL students is regular and ongoing. Twice a year, parents will
receive an ELLP (English Language Learning Progressions) report, which measures
progress in learning English. Parents are also offered an interview at this
time, if they wish to discuss their child’s progress.
Connecting with parents
There is an ESOL and International Blog, which is a window into English Language
Learning at school. It also contains links to community events and content of
interest to International families. Family members can view and comment on
children’s work from anywhere in the world. For more please see http://acsesol2014.blogspot.co.nz/
There is a fortnightly International Parents meeting, where parents meet with
the ESOL teacher to learn about New Zealand education, ask questions and meet
other parents. We normally share afternoon tea, and once a term we have a social
event, where we may visit a café or someone’s home. This group also contributes
to the wider life of the school by running a stall at the school fair.
As a school we are committed to promoting and supporting the diversity of
cultures at our school. We are building a collection of bilingual books in our
school library and these are well used by our families.
International Week
Every year we celebrate our diversity with International Week, which is a week
of internationally themed learning and performances (often provided by our own
international families). The week finishes with a shared international dinner
and community performances.