English as an Additional Language (EAL) program

What is the English as an Additional Language (EAL) program?

The English as an Additional Language (EAL) program is designed to support students in the English Section who require focused instruction to build proficiency in the language.

Through targeted English language support, the program helps students develop the language skills needed to participate successfully in their learning. The goal is to enable students to transition confidently and independently into the regular English curriculum as their proficiency develops.

Students in the German-speaking Kindergarten and Primary classes who require additional support in developing German language proficiency are supported through our German language support programs. For more information, please visit our Learning German page.

HOW THE EAL PROGRAM WORKS

Primary School

Students in the EAL program receive targeted English language support based on their individual proficiency level. EAL instruction generally takes place during regular English lessons. Depending on a student's needs, additional support may also be provided during other subject lessons or during non-graded collaborative periods. All students continue to participate in German classes alongside the EAL program.

Secondary School

In Secondary, EAL placement is determined based on each student's individual language needs. EAL instruction generally takes place instead of English Language & Literature classes, allowing students to focus on developing core English language skills such as grammar, vocabulary, reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Depending on the student's proficiency level and timetable, additional support may also be provided during other subject lessons. In some cases, EAL may replace French or Spanish and/or the Collaboration Period.

EAL AT A GLANCE

Who is it for?

Students in the English Section who require focused instruction to build proficiency in English.

What is the goal?

To equip students with functional academic English as quickly and effectively as possible while minimizing disruption to their broader learning journey.

How do students progress?

Entry, progression, and exit from the EAL program are based on classroom performance, formal assessments, and teacher recommendations.

Admissions Information

While GESM offers an EAL program, this does not mean that the school can automatically accept students with limited or no English language proficiency.

Admission depends on a variety of factors, including but not limited to:

The student's and family's commitment to language development
The school's current capacity and available resources
The availability of specialist teachers
The number of EAL students already in the class