Written question asked by Karen Buck (Labour) on Wednesday, 23 October 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 5 November 2002. It was answered by Stephen Twigg (Labour) on Tuesday, 5 November 2002 on behalf of the Department for Education and Skills.

Dept for Education and Skills

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills, what guidance she has issued to schools on teaching English as an additional language. - Including figure. (Holding answer 30 October 2002).

Answer: Ms Buck: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what guidance he has issued to schools on teaching English as an additional language. [77802] Mr. Stephen Twigg: [holding answer 30 October 2002]: The general consensus among practitioners in England is that the teaching of English as an additional language (EAL) is most effective where it is firmly embedded in classroom practice across all national curriculum subject areas. This ensures that pupils have the opportunity to learn English in a meaningful subject specific context. That approach is reflected in the guidance issued by the Department on teaching EAL as part of the national strategies on literacy, numeracy and Key Stage 3. Many schools use the resources provided through the Department's £154 million Ethnic Minority Achievement Grant (EMAG) programme to provide additional tailored support for bilingual learners.

Secondary information