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Learning English as an Additional Language

Students who arrive at ICS with limited English skills are supported by the 'English as an Additional Language' (EAL) programme. This provides a caring, flexible and supportive environment to help students integrate socially and become successful academically.

EAL support is provided to help your child succeed in the mainstream classroom. EAL teachers and assistants help your child develop the language skills, learning strategies and cultural awareness needed to be successful at ICS. This document gives you a brief guide as to how the programme works, and more details follow below.

 EAL in the Primary School

New students who are non-native English speakers are assessed by an EAL specialist teacher to determine the appropriate level of support. Then, based upon these assessments, students are placed into one of five different levels and given the appropriate support options. This support is provided both during lessons in the regular classroom and in small groups outside the class. 

EAL classes
In these classes, EAL students develop concepts, vocabulary and grammar that allow them to receive (listen and read) and express (speak and write) the English language. Students learn both social and academic language in these classes, allowing them to interact socially with peers and be successful in their classes.

In class support
In many cases, the EAL teacher works with the class teacher in the classroom to help EAL students actively participate in the curriculum. This support can take the form of individual or group work. EAL teachers also work with class teachers to modify work and develop language appropriate materials for the EAL students. Ideally, there exists a team teaching approach between the classroom teacher and the EAL teacher.

Mother Tongue Support
The school firmly believes in encouraging mother tongue maintenance and will assist in finding teachers and offering advice to any language group wishing to set up a mother tongue maintenance course at any grade level. Please note that mother tongue instruction can only be scheduled outside of school hours, and any tutor or group wishing to use the school’s facilities must comply with the formal application process. Details are available from the school office.

The school will support 50% of the cost of recognised and approved mother-tongue classes for Primary students (in Grades EY up to 5) to a maximum of CHFs 400 per student per school year. Such support can only be given if the details are discussed with the school in advance of the tuition, and formal approval is given. The payments will be made directly to parents upon the presentation of official invoices for the tuition. Please note that this provision does not apply to classes in German or English, as we have a comprehensive provision for both languages within the school.

EAL in the Secondary School

EAL specialist teachers assess new students’ English language skills in order to decide on an appropriate level of support. The support options are:

- classes in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
- Sheltered Humanities classes
- Sheltered English classes
- In-class support in certain subjects such as science.

EAL students are encouraged to show their knowledge and understanding in mainstream subjects by completing modified activities and assessments while still developing their academic language skills. This may include them carrying out adjusted tasks, or being given extra time or individual support. The EAL department also offers Homework Support after school so that students can have one-on-one assistance.

EAL students are recommended to maintain their mother tongue in order to add to their learning capabilities. Further details regarding private mother tongue language classes are available from the Admissions Office.