English as an Additional Language (EAL) Program

The English as an Additional Language (EAL) program supports students who are developing proficiency in English while learning alongside their peers in NL Schools. EAL programming is available to eligible students in Kindergarten to Grade 12 and is designed to support language development, academic success, and full participation in school life.

EAL programming is grounded in culturally responsive and inclusive pedagogy and recognizes the linguistic, cultural, and experiential strengths that students bring to their learning. Instruction focuses on developing students’ skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, as well as the academic language required to access the curriculum across subject areas.

Programming and Courses

EAL support is needs-based and may include a combination of direct instruction, in-class support, small-group learning, and consultation with classroom teachers. At the secondary level, students may also access EAL courses outlined in the Newfoundland and Labrador curriculum, including credit-bearing senior high EAL courses that support language development while contributing toward graduation requirements.

EAL programming supports students as they:

• Develop English language proficiency

• Build academic vocabulary and learning strategies

• Access subject-area curriculum content

• Transition gradually into full participation in mainstream programming
  
  

Service Delivery

EAL services are delivered by qualified EAL teachers who work collaboratively with classroom teachers, school administrators, guidance counsellors, and families. Supports may be provided in person or virtually, depending on student needs and regional availability. Programming is flexible and responsive, with supports adjusted over time as students’ language proficiency and academic independence increase.

The goal of the EAL program is to ensure that students receive the language support they need to be successful in the NL Schools curriculum while fostering a strong sense of belonging, engagement, and confidence as learners.

Role of the EAL Teacher

English as an Additional Language (EAL) teachers play a key role in supporting newcomer students as they develop English language proficiency and access the curriculum. EAL teachers work collaboratively with classroom teachers, school-based teams, families, and community partners to support student success through culturally responsive and inclusive practices.

EAL teachers assess students’ English language development and use this information to plan and deliver targeted instruction that supports listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Instruction may occur through direct language instruction, in-class support, small-group learning, or consultation with classroom teachers, depending on student needs.

EAL teachers provide ongoing support by:

• Delivering direct English language instruction aligned with students’ proficiency levels

• Supporting classroom instruction through co-planning, co-teaching, and in-class strategies

• Monitoring student progress and adjusting supports as language skills develop

• Completing language assessments and contributing to reporting processes

• Assisting educators in understanding the cultural and linguistic strengths of their students

• Supporting inclusive instructional practices that promote belonging and engagement
  
  

EAL teachers may work with students in person or virtually and often support multiple schools. At the high school level, EAL teachers may also deliver credit-bearing EAL courses aligned with provincial curriculum requirements.

As members of the school support team, EAL teachers collaborate closely with administrators, guidance counsellors, classroom teachers, and families to set goals, monitor progress, and support students’ successful transition into full participation in the regular curriculum.