Assessment
When a new EAL pupil arrives at a school, an assessment of their English ability and skill should be carried out. The initial assessment is usually done by a member of the EAL Team after a brief period of settling in for the pupil, usually about two weeks. However the assessment can be carried out by a member of staff.
During the assessment the four literacy skills will be assessed (Speaking, Listening, Reading, and Writing) and a level assigned for each based on the pupils proficiency in English.
Reading and writing are not generally assessed in P1 or P2 (Aged 4 to 7)
An EAL Profile is then generated from the initial assessment and stays with the pupil throughout their educational journey. It should be updated yearly by the Class Teacher in Primary, or an Additional Support / Support for Learning Teacher in Secondary.
The information on the EAL Profile helps staff plan tailored support for individual pupils as well as tracking pupils English progress through the years.