EAL at Kent College

English as an Additional Language (EAL) at Kent College Pembury is a dynamic, inclusive and forward-thinking provision designed to support both boys and girls in the International Study Centre (ISC) and beyond. Our EAL curriculum goes far beyond language acquisition, integrating topic-led lessons focused on global issues such as equality, the environment, media and technology. These themes are explored through structured lessons and enhanced with additional project work throughout the year, encouraging students to think critically and engage confidently with the world around them. This year, communication and speaking skills have been a key focus. With the introduction of a new IGCSE English as a Second Language speaking component, we have prioritised authentic practice to prepare students fully for examination success and wider school life at KC. Our ambition is to excel in this area, equipping learners not only for IGCSE success but also for future IELTS examinations and lifelong communication skills. Vocabulary development underpins this work through structured vocabulary lists and targeted training to complement spoken language. Students benefit from focused work on past papers and highly authentic mock examinations, with additional tailored support provided for those who need it most. Our EAL team of experienced teachers offers 1:1 support or small group sessions and adapts teaching strategies to suit individual needs, ensuring every student feels confident and capable to the highest level. Positivity, praise, empathy and understanding are central to our approach; when students feel happy and safe, they are more motivated to participate and better able to recall challenging content. Beyond English, EAL provision at KC includes subject-specific support for international students, including A-level Biology, Economics and Business, as well as dedicated IELTS preparation. This individually tailored support enhances both academic progress and pastoral care, enriching our diverse school community. Highlights from last year include an international Year 11 project linked to International Women’s Day, where students delivered speeches on global issues to peers in Poland, and a cross-school poetry project on friendship involving students from Years 8, 10 and Lower Sixth. Our students’ achievements speak for themselves: all EAL students achieved 100% Grade 8–9s in the 2025 IGCSE English as a Second Language, and for the third consecutive year, the top GCSE student at KC is an international learner. These successes reflect the strength, ambition and global outlook of EAL at Kent College.