Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Episode 43: Building Language Through Phonics with Anna Bejshovcova | Phonics Strategies for EAL Learners and Multilingual Classrooms | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Welcome to Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, the podcast for teachers, school leaders, EAL specialists, and educators who are passionate about supporting multilingual learners and developing inclusive approaches to language learning.

In Episode 43, Helen Bodell is joined by Anna Bejshovcova to explore the powerful role that phonics can play in supporting EAL learners’ reading skills, literacy development, and wider language acquisition.

Phonics is a key part of early reading instruction, but for multilingual learners, effective phonics teaching also needs to consider language development, vocabulary, pronunciation, and the unique experiences that EAL pupils bring to the classroom.

Anna shares practical strategies for integrating phonics into everyday teaching, discusses common challenges educators may face when teaching phonics to EAL learners, and offers guidance on making phonics instruction accessible, engaging, and supportive for multilingual classrooms.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How phonics supports reading development for EAL learners.
• The relationship between phonics, vocabulary, and language acquisition.
• Practical strategies for teaching phonics in multilingual classrooms.
• How educators can adapt phonics approaches for pupils learning English as an additional language.
• Common challenges when supporting EAL learners with early reading.
• Ways to make phonics teaching inclusive and engaging for all learners.

Developing literacy skills alongside English language development is essential for helping multilingual learners become confident readers and writers. With thoughtful approaches, phonics can provide an important foundation for language learning and classroom success.

Whether you are a primary teacher, EAL Lead, reading leader, teaching assistant, or trainee teacher, this episode provides practical ideas to support your literacy provision.

Meet Anna Bejshovcova

Anna Bejshovcova is an experienced EAL/ESL educator, teacher trainer, and academic manager with more than 15 years of international teaching experience.

She holds a Bachelor of Education degree in EFL and a Master’s degree in Applied Linguistics and ELT, with research focusing on the use of translanguaging in international schools.

Anna currently works as an EAL coordinator for Key Stage 1 at Lanna International School in Thailand. She has a particular interest in early literacy development, assessment for learning, and supporting language learners with additional needs.

Explore Twinkl Phonics

To support your phonics teaching, explore the Twinkl Phonics programme — a DfE-validated, comprehensive systematic synthetic phonics programme designed for children from Nursery to Year 2.

Through the stories and adventures of Kit, Sam, and the Twinkl Phonics family, the programme supports children in developing the skills and understanding they need to become confident, independent readers and writers.

Explore the Twinkl Phonics programme:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/twinkl-phonics/level-2-twinkl-phonics

Explore more Twinkl EAL resources

Join Twinkl EAL:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3

Browse the full Twinkl EAL resource collection:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t

Free EAL CPD sessions

Book your free online EAL CPD sessions:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

If you enjoyed this episode of Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with colleagues. Each episode explores expert insights, research, and practical strategies that help educators support multilingual learners and create inclusive classrooms.

Episode 42: Empowering Educators – Collaboration for Multilingual Learners with Exceptionalities with Dr Andrea Honigsfeld and Dr Audrey Cohan | Supporting EAL and SEND Learners Through Collaboration | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Welcome to Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, the podcast for teachers, school leaders, EAL specialists, SEND professionals, and educators who are passionate about creating inclusive learning environments for multilingual learners.

In Episode 42, Helen Bodell is joined by Dr Andrea Honigsfeld and Dr Audrey Cohan for an insightful conversation exploring how educators can better support multilingual learners with exceptionalities through collaboration, evidence-informed practice, and inclusive approaches.

This episode explores ideas from their book, Collaboration for Multilingual Learners With Exceptionalities, focusing on how schools can work together to support pupils who are learning additional languages while also having additional learning needs.

Together, Andrea, Audrey, and Helen discuss practical models, strategies, and real-life examples that empower educators to create stronger systems of support for multilingual learners.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why collaboration is essential when supporting multilingual learners with additional needs.
• How EAL and SEND teams can work together effectively.
• Strategies for supporting multilingual learners with exceptionalities.
• The importance of recognising both language development and individual learning needs.
• Practical approaches for inclusive teaching and intervention.
• How educators can create stronger support networks for diverse learners.

Supporting multilingual learners with additional needs requires a collaborative approach that values pupils’ languages, identities, strengths, and experiences. When educators work together, schools can create more effective and equitable learning opportunities.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, SENDCO, classroom teacher, specialist teacher, school leader, or teacher educator, this episode provides valuable insight into developing inclusive provision for multilingual learners.

Meet Dr Andrea Honigsfeld

Dr Andrea Honigsfeld is Professor in the School of Education and Human Services at Molloy University, Rockville Centre, New York, where she teaches graduate courses related to cultural and linguistic diversity and TESOL methodology.

She regularly provides professional learning focused on content and language integration strategies, collaborative practices, and supporting educators working with multilingual learners.

Andrea has co-authored over 60 articles and chapters and has co-authored or co-edited more than 30 books, including 11 national bestsellers.

Meet Dr Audrey Cohan

Dr Audrey Cohan is Senior Dean for Research, Scholarship, and Graduate Studies at Molloy University, Rockville Centre, New York.

During her career at Molloy University, Audrey has worked as Professor, Chairperson of the Education Department, and Interim Dean for the Division of Natural Sciences. She began her career as a special education teacher in New York City before focusing on multilingual learners with exceptionalities after gaining TESOL certification.

She has co-authored and co-edited 13 books and numerous journal articles focused on education, inclusion, and supporting diverse learners.

Resources and further reading

Explore the research, articles, and resources discussed in this episode:

• Read the Needs Are Special article.
• Read the Collaboration Is Key article.
• Visit the Companion Website.
• Buy the book: Collaboration for Multilingual Learners With Exceptionalities.

Explore more Twinkl EAL resources

Join Twinkl EAL:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3

Browse the full Twinkl EAL resource collection:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t

Free EAL CPD sessions

Book your free online EAL CPD sessions:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

If you enjoyed this episode of Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with colleagues. Each episode explores research, expert perspectives, and practical approaches that help educators support multilingual learners and build more inclusive schools.

Episode 41: EAL Strategies for Trainee Teachers and ECTs | Practical Support for New Teachers with Helen Bodell | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Welcome to Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, the podcast for teachers, trainee teachers, early career teachers, EAL specialists, and educators who are passionate about supporting multilingual learners and creating inclusive classrooms.

In Episode 41, Helen Bodell is interviewed by Simeon Care from the Twinkl Trainee and ECT team in this special collaboration between the Twinkl EAL team and the Twinkl Trainee and ECT team.

Together, they explore practical EAL strategies for trainee teachers and Early Career Teachers (ECTs), sharing advice and classroom approaches to help new teachers confidently support pupils learning English as an Additional Language (EAL).

Starting a teaching career can feel overwhelming, and understanding how to support multilingual learners is an important part of creating an inclusive learning environment. This episode provides practical guidance, strategies, and resources to help new teachers develop confidence when working with EAL pupils.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Practical EAL strategies for trainee teachers and ECTs.
• How to create an inclusive classroom environment for multilingual learners.
• Ways to support language development across the curriculum.
• Tips for building confidence when teaching pupils learning EAL.
• Common questions new teachers have about EAL provision.
• Useful resources to support your journey as an educator.

Whether you are completing Initial Teacher Training (ITT), beginning your first teaching role, or supporting trainee teachers and ECTs, this episode offers practical ideas to help you make a positive difference for multilingual learners.

Download the EAL Support for Trainee Teachers PDF

Access the free guide:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/lt4mi

Explore more Twinkl EAL resources

Join Twinkl EAL:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3

Browse the full Twinkl EAL resource collection:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t

Free EAL CPD sessions

Book your free online EAL CPD sessions:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

If you enjoyed this episode of Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with colleagues. Each episode explores practical strategies, expert insights, and classroom approaches that help educators support multilingual learners and create welcoming, inclusive schools.

Episode 40: Scanning Pens – Revolutionising EAL Education with Assistive Technology featuring Quin Chandler | Supporting Multilingual Learners Through Technology | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Welcome to Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, the podcast for teachers, school leaders, EAL specialists, and educators who are passionate about supporting multilingual learners and creating inclusive learning opportunities for every pupil.

In Episode 40, Helen Bodell is joined by Quin Chandler from Scanning Pens to explore how assistive technology can support EAL learners of all ages and help remove barriers to language, reading, and comprehension.

Together, Helen and Quin discuss how the C Pen Reader 3 is supporting learners from primary school through to adulthood by providing practical tools that help students access written language, develop independence, and build confidence.

The conversation explores how assistive technology can support multilingual learners in classrooms, exams, and wider learning environments, helping students demonstrate their knowledge and skills without language barriers limiting their potential.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How assistive technology can support EAL learners.
• Ways digital tools can improve reading, writing, and comprehension.
• How technology can encourage learner independence.
• The role of accessibility tools in inclusive classrooms.
• How assistive technology can support learners during assessments and exams.
• Practical considerations for introducing technology into EAL provision.

For many multilingual learners, the right tools can provide increased confidence, independence, and access to learning. Assistive technology is helping educators create more inclusive environments where students can participate fully and achieve success.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, classroom teacher, SEND professional, teaching assistant, school leader, or education technology specialist, this episode provides valuable insight into how technology can enhance support for multilingual learners.

Meet Quin Chandler

Quin Chandler is Managing Director of Scanning Pens and joined the company in 2019. With over a decade of experience working in the education technology sector, Quin is passionate about making learning accessible for everyone.

Through Scanning Pens, Quin works to ensure learners have access to the tools they need to overcome barriers, develop confidence, and thrive in education and beyond.

Explore more Twinkl EAL resources

Join Twinkl EAL:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3

Browse the full Twinkl EAL resource collection:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t

Free EAL CPD sessions

Book your free online EAL CPD sessions:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

If you enjoyed this episode of Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with colleagues. Each episode explores expert insights, practical strategies, and innovative approaches that help educators support multilingual learners and build inclusive classrooms.

Episode 39: AI and EAL – Bridging Language and Technology with Sarah Guinon | Using Artificial Intelligence to Support Multilingual Learners | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Welcome to Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, the podcast for teachers, school leaders, EAL specialists, and educators who are passionate about supporting multilingual learners through innovative and inclusive approaches.

In Episode 39, Helen Bodell is joined by Sarah Guinon, an EAL specialist and educator, to explore the opportunities and challenges of using artificial intelligence (AI) in EAL teaching and language learning.

Together, Helen and Sarah discuss how AI tools are influencing education, how technology can support multilingual learners, and how teachers can use digital tools effectively while maintaining the important human connection at the heart of language learning.

From improving classroom engagement to supporting language development, this episode explores how educators can thoughtfully integrate AI into their practice and make informed choices about the tools they use.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• The benefits and challenges of using AI in EAL classrooms.
• How artificial intelligence can support English language development.
• Ways to choose appropriate AI tools for multilingual learners.
• Practical ideas for integrating technology into language teaching.
• The importance of balancing technology with relationships and teacher expertise.
• How AI can support personalised learning experiences.

As technology continues to evolve, educators have new opportunities to support language learners. The most effective approaches combine innovative tools with strong pedagogy, meaningful communication, and an understanding of learners’ individual needs.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, classroom teacher, international school educator, or education technology enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insight into the future of AI and language learning.

Meet Sarah Guinon

Sarah Guinon is committed to the study of applied linguistics, with a particular passion for English as an Additional Language (EAL) and effective strategies for supporting language learners.

Her experience as an EAL specialist at an international school in Hong Kong has strengthened her dedication to multilingual education and helping students thrive academically and socially.

Growing up in a diverse area of California, Sarah witnessed the experiences of language learners firsthand, inspiring her career focus on supporting EAL students and exploring effective approaches to language development.

Explore Sarah’s AI and EAL tools

Find out more about the tools Sarah discusses:

https://sarahguinonteaching.com/eal

Explore more Twinkl EAL resources

Join Twinkl EAL:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3

Browse the full Twinkl EAL resource collection:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t

Free EAL CPD sessions

Book your free online EAL CPD sessions:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

If you enjoyed this episode of Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with colleagues. Each episode explores expert insights, research, and practical approaches that help educators support multilingual learners in an ever-changing educational landscape.

Episode 38: Supporting Refugees with Trauma with Dr Tina Rae | Trauma-Informed Practice for Schools Supporting Refugee Learners | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Welcome to Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, the podcast for teachers, school leaders, EAL specialists, pastoral teams, and educators who are passionate about supporting multilingual learners and creating safe, inclusive learning environments.

In Episode 38, Helen Bodell is joined by Dr Tina Rae, Consultant Educational and Child Psychologist, to explore supporting refugee pupils who may have experienced trauma and how schools can develop trauma-informed approaches.

Together, Helen and Tina discuss how educators can support refugee learners’ emotional wellbeing, build a sense of belonging, and create classrooms where children feel safe, understood, and ready to learn.

They explore the importance of recognising the experiences some refugee children may bring with them, while focusing on practical strategies schools can use to support wellbeing, relationships, and learning.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• What trauma-informed practice means in an educational setting.
• How schools can support refugee learners’ wellbeing.
• Strategies for creating safe and welcoming classrooms.
• The importance of relationships, belonging, and emotional support.
• How educators can work sensitively with children who have experienced disruption or change.
• Practical approaches for supporting refugee pupils alongside their language development.

For many refugee learners, joining a new school involves adapting to a new language, culture, curriculum, and community. A whole-school approach that prioritises inclusion and wellbeing can make a significant difference to children’s experiences and outcomes.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, classroom teacher, pastoral leader, SEND professional, teaching assistant, or school leader, this episode provides valuable insight into supporting refugee children and young people in education.

Meet Dr Tina Rae

Dr Tina Rae has over 40 years’ experience working with children, adults, and families across clinical and educational settings, including local authorities and specialist services.

She currently works as a Consultant Educational and Child Psychologist across SEMH and mainstream contexts, as well as supporting fostering agencies, foster carers, social workers, and looked-after children.

Tina was an Academic and Professional Tutor for the Doctorate in Educational and Child Psychology at the University of East London from 2010–2016. She is a registered member of the Health and Care Professions Council, a member of ENSEC (European Network for Social and Emotional Competence), and has contributed widely to research and practice in children’s emotional wellbeing.

A prolific author with over 100 publications, Tina is passionate about developing evidence-informed resources that enable schools to deliver effective preventative mental health interventions.

Resources from this episode

Buy the book:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/dzbm6

Buy Dr Tina Rae’s Refugee Discussion Cards:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/6oftf

Connect with Tina on X:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1kavu7

Connect with Tina on LinkedIn:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/bij37

Explore more Twinkl EAL resources

Join Twinkl EAL:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3

Browse the full Twinkl EAL resource collection:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t

Free EAL CPD sessions

Book your free online EAL CPD sessions:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

If you enjoyed this episode of Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with colleagues. Each episode explores practical strategies, expert insights, and conversations that help educators support multilingual learners and create inclusive, compassionate schools.

Episode 37: EAL and SEND with Anna Bejshovcova | Supporting Multilingual Learners with Additional Needs | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Welcome to Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, the podcast for teachers, school leaders, EAL specialists, SEND practitioners, and educators who are passionate about creating inclusive learning environments for multilingual learners.

In Episode 37, Helen Bodell is joined by Anna Bejshovcova, an experienced EAL/ESL educator, teacher trainer, and academic manager, to explore the important connection between English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Together, Helen and Anna discuss how schools can support multilingual learners who may also have additional learning needs, and the importance of understanding the difference between language development and SEND.

They explore practical approaches to assessment, early literacy development, and supporting language learners with additional needs, helping educators create learning environments where every pupil can thrive.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• The relationship between EAL and SEND.
• How educators can identify and support multilingual learners with additional needs.
• The importance of appropriate assessment for EAL learners.
• Strategies for developing early literacy skills.
• How translanguaging can support inclusive practice.
• Ways to create effective support for language learners with SEND.

Supporting multilingual learners requires a clear understanding of each child’s individual journey. By considering language background, learning needs, and strengths, schools can ensure pupils receive the right support at the right time.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, SENDCO, classroom teacher, teaching assistant, or school leader, this episode provides valuable guidance for supporting multilingual learners with diverse needs.

Meet Anna Bejshovcova

Anna Bejshovcova is an experienced EAL/ESL educator, teacher trainer, and academic manager with more than 15 years of international teaching experience.

She holds a Bachelor of Education degree in EFL and a Master’s degree in Applied Linguistics and ELT, with her dissertation focusing on the use of translanguaging in international schools.

Anna currently works as an EAL Coordinator for Key Stage 1 at Lanna International School in Thailand. She has a particular interest in developing early literacy skills, assessment for learning, and supporting language learners with SEND.

Explore more Twinkl EAL resources

Join Twinkl EAL:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3

Browse the full Twinkl EAL resource collection:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t

Free EAL CPD sessions

Book your free online EAL CPD sessions:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

If you enjoyed this episode of Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with colleagues. Each episode explores practical strategies, expert insights, and conversations that help educators support multilingual learners and build truly inclusive schools.

Episode 35: Leading and Succeeding in an International School with Adri | EAL Leadership and Plurilingual Education | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Welcome to Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, the podcast for teachers, school leaders, EAL specialists, and educators who are passionate about supporting multilingual learners in diverse educational communities.

In Episode 35, Helen Bodell is joined by Adri, an experienced EAL/ESL specialist and academic manager, to explore leading and succeeding in an international school environment.

Together, Helen and Adri discuss the opportunities and challenges of leading EAL provision in a multilingual international setting, including how schools can support students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

Having once been an EAL learner herself, Adri shares her unique perspective on multilingual education and the importance of creating learning environments where students’ languages and identities are recognised as strengths.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• What effective EAL leadership looks like in an international school.
• The challenges and opportunities of supporting multilingual learners globally.
• How personal experiences can shape approaches to language education.
• The importance of plurilingual education and valuing students’ languages.
• Strategies for developing professional learning and collaboration.
• How educators can support diverse international school communities.

International schools bring together learners, families, and educators from many different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Strong EAL leadership helps ensure that all students feel included, supported, and able to succeed.

Whether you are an EAL Coordinator, international school teacher, school leader, or educator interested in multilingual education, this episode offers valuable insight into building effective EAL provision in global contexts.

Meet Adri

Adri is an experienced EAL/ESL specialist and academic manager with a passion for plurilingual education. She currently works as the Elementary EAL Leader at St Joseph’s Institution International School Malaysia.

As someone who was once an EAL learner herself, Adri brings a personal understanding of the multilingual learner experience and uses this perspective to support inclusive language education.

Adri is also passionate about professional development and regularly attends and presents at international education conferences. She serves on the IATEFL YLTSIG committee as Blog Editor, leads the Primary EAL Network for the Association of International Malaysian Schools, and shares her expertise through her blog, EAL Diaries.

Explore more Twinkl EAL resources

Join Twinkl EAL:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3

Browse the full Twinkl EAL resource collection:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t

Free EAL CPD sessions

Book your free online EAL CPD sessions:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

If you enjoyed this episode of Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with colleagues. Each episode explores expert experiences, research, and practical approaches that help educators support multilingual learners in classrooms around the world.

Episode 34: Why It Works – Planning for EAL Support | Effective Strategies for Teachers and Teaching Assistants with Dr Robert Sharples and Jo Thomson | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Welcome to Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, the podcast for teachers, school leaders, EAL specialists, teaching assistants, and educators who are passionate about supporting multilingual learners through effective, evidence-informed practice.

This episode is part of our Why It Works series, where we explore the research behind approaches that support pupils learning English as an Additional Language (EAL).

In Episode 34, Helen Bodell is joined by Dr Robert Sharples, Lecturer in Language and Education at the University of Bristol and author of Teaching EAL: Evidence-Based Strategies for the Classroom and School, alongside Jo Thomson, Twinkl's EAL Content Writer and experienced primary teacher.

Together, they explore planning for EAL support, including the role of teaching assistants, effective classroom support, and how schools can plan interventions that help multilingual learners make progress.

Helen, Robert, and Jo discuss the latest research around supporting EAL learners and share evidence-informed strategies that educators can use to ensure support is purposeful, inclusive, and connected to classroom learning.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How to effectively plan support for EAL learners.
• The role of teaching assistants in supporting multilingual pupils.
• How TAs can provide effective classroom and intervention support.
• The importance of connecting interventions with curriculum learning.
• Evidence-informed strategies for supporting language development.
• How EAL Leads can develop effective approaches across their setting.

Effective EAL support is about more than additional time or resources—it is about careful planning, collaboration, and ensuring that every adult working with a pupil understands how to support language development.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, classroom teacher, teaching assistant, SENCO, or school leader, this episode provides practical guidance to help you plan meaningful support for multilingual learners.

Explore more Twinkl EAL resources

Join Twinkl EAL:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3

Browse the full Twinkl EAL resource collection:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t

Free EAL CPD sessions

Book your free online EAL CPD sessions:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

If you enjoyed this episode of Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with colleagues. The Why It Works series explores practical strategies and the research behind approaches that help multilingual learners access learning and thrive in the classroom.

Episode 33: When EAL Meets MFL with Bethan McHugh | Supporting Multilingualism in Language Learning | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Welcome to Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, the podcast for teachers, school leaders, EAL specialists, MFL teachers, and educators who are passionate about supporting multilingual learners and celebrating the power of languages.

In Episode 33, Helen Bodell is joined by Bethan McHugh, Twinkl Languages Product Owner, to explore the connection between English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Modern Foreign Languages (MFL).

Together, Helen and Bethan discuss how EAL and MFL educators can learn from each other, how multilingual pupils experience language learning, and how schools can create inclusive approaches that value all the languages children bring to the classroom.

With many classrooms becoming increasingly linguistically diverse, understanding the relationship between additional English learning and foreign language learning is essential. This episode explores how teachers can build on pupils’ existing language knowledge, encourage confidence, and make language learning accessible for everyone.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• The links between EAL and MFL teaching approaches.
• How multilingual learners’ existing languages can support further language learning.
• Ways to create inclusive MFL classrooms.
• How teachers can celebrate linguistic diversity.
• The importance of making language learning accessible for all pupils.
• Practical ideas for supporting learners across different language contexts.

Language learning is a strength that connects us all. By recognising the skills multilingual learners already have, schools can create richer, more inclusive language experiences for every pupil.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, MFL teacher, classroom teacher, teaching assistant, or school leader, this episode offers valuable insight into how different areas of language education can work together to support learners.

Meet Bethan McHugh

Bethan McHugh is Twinkl Languages Product Owner and has over 20 years of experience in MFL education, curriculum development, and assessment.

She has taught French and Spanish from Key Stage 2 through to Key Stage 5 and is passionate about making language learning accessible, engaging, and inclusive for all learners.

Explore more Twinkl EAL resources

Join Twinkl EAL:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3

Browse the full Twinkl EAL resource collection:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t

Free EAL CPD sessions

Book your free online EAL CPD sessions:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

If you enjoyed this episode of Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with colleagues. Each episode explores practical strategies, expert insights, and inspiring conversations that help educators support multilingual learners and celebrate the languages that make classrooms unique.