Episode 21: Translanguaging with Jacob Huckle | Harnessing Multilingualism in the Classroom | 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 celebrating the power of language diversity.

In Episode 21, Helen Bodell is joined by Jacob Huckle, EAL teacher and Head of Multilingual Learning at a British international school in Suzhou, China, to explore the concept of translanguaging and how schools can use pupils’ full linguistic repertoires as a resource for learning.

Translanguaging is an approach that recognises multilingual learners’ languages as valuable tools for communication, understanding, identity, and academic success. In this episode, Helen and Jacob discuss how educators can move beyond seeing additional languages as barriers and instead embrace multilingualism as a strength within the classroom.

Jacob shares his experience of designing policies and systems that celebrate linguistic and cultural diversity, helping schools create environments where all learners can draw on their languages and experiences to support learning.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• What translanguaging means and why it matters for multilingual learners.
• How schools can use pupils’ home languages to support learning.
• The benefits of recognising multilingualism as a classroom resource.
• Practical strategies for implementing translanguaging approaches.
• How language and culture contribute to identity and belonging.
• Lessons from multilingual education in an international school context.

Meet Jacob Huckle

Jacob Huckle is an EAL teacher and Head of Multilingual Learning at a British international school in Suzhou, China. He works on developing policies and systems that use the linguistic and cultural diversity of the school community as a resource to enrich learning for all students.

Alongside his teaching role, Jacob is a part-time doctoral student researching multilingualism and intercultural understanding in international education. His work explores how schools can better support diverse communities through inclusive approaches to language learning.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, classroom teacher, international educator, school leader, or someone interested in multilingual education, this episode provides valuable insight into how translanguaging can transform the way we think about language in schools.

Further reading

Read our accompanying blog for further ideas, strategies, and resources:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/blog/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

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, practical strategies, and inspiring conversations that help educators support multilingual learners and create inclusive classrooms where every language is valued.

Episode 20: Songs and Language Acquisition with Cate Hamilton | The Power of Music in 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 creating inclusive, language-rich classrooms.

In Episode 20, Helen Bodell is joined by Cate Hamilton, doctoral researcher at the University of Oxford, to explore the fascinating connection between songs, music, and language acquisition.

Together, Helen and Cate discuss how songs can support children learning languages, including pupils learning English as an Additional Language (EAL), and explore why music can be such a powerful tool for developing communication, confidence, memory, and a love of languages.

Drawing on her research into the effectiveness of using songs to teach foreign languages to primary-aged children, Cate shares insights into how singing can support language learning and how educators can use music to create engaging multilingual learning experiences.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How songs can support language acquisition and vocabulary development.
• Why music can be an effective tool for multilingual learners.
• The links between singing, memory, pronunciation, and communication.
• Practical ways teachers can use songs in language-rich classrooms.
• How celebrating multiple languages can support inclusion and belonging.
• The role of language awareness in effective language teaching.

Meet Cate Hamilton

Cate Hamilton is a doctoral student at the University of Oxford, researching the effectiveness of using songs for teaching foreign languages to primary school-aged children.

Before joining the Oxford Department of Education, where she completed her Master's in Applied Linguistics in 2021, Cate taught English and foreign languages in secondary schools and early years settings for 15 years.

Cate’s interest in songs and language learning developed through Babel Babies, a multilingual approach to exploring languages and linguistics through singing songs in ten languages.

She also hosts The Language Revolution podcast, exploring how language awareness can inform and transform language teaching, with guests including leading voices in education and linguistics. Cate is also Chair of the annual conference for NALDIC, the national subject association for EAL.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, classroom teacher, early years practitioner, teaching assistant, or language specialist, this episode offers inspiring ideas about how music and multilingual approaches can help children develop language skills and confidence.

Further reading

Read our accompanying blog for further ideas, strategies, and resources:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/blog/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

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, classroom practice, and inspiring stories that help educators support multilingual learners and celebrate the power of language.

Episode 19: Why It Works – EAL Assessment | Supporting Progress for Multilingual Learners 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, and educators who are passionate about supporting multilingual learners through inclusive and evidence-informed practice.

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

In Episode 19, 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 the important topic of EAL assessment and answer educators’ questions about how schools can effectively assess, monitor, and support the progress of multilingual learners.

Assessing pupils learning English as an Additional Language requires careful consideration of both language development and subject knowledge. In this episode, Helen, Robert, and Jo discuss how teachers can use assessment effectively to understand learners’ needs, plan appropriate support, and recognise the progress multilingual pupils make.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why effective EAL assessment is important.
• How to assess multilingual learners fairly and accurately.
• The difference between language proficiency and subject understanding.
• Ways to monitor language development over time.
• How assessment information can inform classroom practice and interventions.
• Practical strategies for supporting EAL learners’ progress.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, classroom teacher, teaching assistant, or school leader, this episode provides guidance and practical ideas to help you better understand, assess, and support multilingual learners.

Further reading

Why It Works – EAL Assessment

Read our accompanying blog for further guidance, strategies, and resources on assessing EAL learners:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/blog/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

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, evidence-informed strategies that help educators understand how to support multilingual learners and create language-rich, inclusive classrooms.

Episode 18: Supporting Trainee Teachers to Teach EAL Learners with Aroosa Azam | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

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

In Episode 18, Helen Bodell is joined by Aroosa Azam, an Early Career Teacher (ECT) working in a diverse and multicultural secondary school in Harrow, to discuss the importance of preparing trainee teachers and new teachers to support pupils learning English as an Additional Language (EAL).

Aroosa teaches Sociology, Citizenship, and Law and completed her PGCE in Citizenship, gaining Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) from UCL Institute of Education after moving into teaching from a career in Law.

Having grown up surrounded by multilingual family experiences, Aroosa shares her perspective on the importance of understanding the learning journey of EAL pupils and why developing confidence in supporting multilingual learners should be a greater focus during the early years of teacher education.

In this episode, Helen and Aroosa discuss the experiences of an Early Career Teacher working in a diverse school community, the importance of EAL training within initial teacher education, and how new teachers can develop inclusive classroom practices that support language development alongside subject learning.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why EAL training is important for trainee teachers and Early Career Teachers.
• How teachers can better understand and support multilingual learners.
• Practical approaches for creating inclusive classrooms.
• The importance of recognising pupils' linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
• How teacher education can better prepare educators for diverse classrooms.
• Advice for new teachers working with pupils learning English as an Additional Language.

Whether you are a trainee teacher, Early Career Teacher, classroom teacher, mentor, or school leader, this episode offers valuable insight into developing confidence and knowledge when supporting multilingual learners.

Meet Aroosa Azam

Aroosa Azam is an Early Career Teacher in her first year of teaching at a diverse and multicultural school in Harrow. She teaches Sociology, Citizenship, and Law and completed her PGCE in Citizenship at UCL Institute of Education.

Before entering education, Aroosa worked in Law and brings a unique perspective to teaching, combining her professional background with a passion for inclusion, multilingualism, and supporting learners from diverse communities.

Connect with Aroosa

Follow Aroosa on Twitter/X:

@Miss_Azam

Explore more Twinkl EAL resources

Join Twinkl EAL:

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

Download your FREE EAL Membership Guide:

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

Browse the full Twinkl EAL resource collection:

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

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 the experiences, research, and practical strategies that help educators support multilingual learners and create inclusive classrooms where every pupil can succeed.

Episode 17: Supporting Refugee Children and New Arrivals with Buddy Box Founder Mark Hill | 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 welcoming, inclusive classrooms.

In Episode 17, Helen Bodell is joined by Mark Hill MBE, founder of Buddy Box, to discuss how schools can support refugee children and newly arrived pupils as they begin their educational journey in the UK.

Mark is an Armed Forces veteran and entrepreneur from Catterick Garrison in North Yorkshire. Through Buddy Box, he has developed a practical communication tool designed to help children who are new to English build confidence, connect with classmates, and feel more comfortable in their new school environment.

Buddy Box was created to support Ukrainian and Afghan refugee children attending schools across the UK. It acts as an icebreaker, helping pupils communicate with peers and teachers through fun, accessible activities that introduce essential vocabulary and everyday language.

In this episode, Helen and Mark explore the importance of belonging, communication, and confidence for multilingual learners, particularly children arriving in schools with little or no English. They discuss how simple, child-friendly resources can help schools create a supportive environment where new arrivals feel welcomed and included.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How Buddy Box supports refugee children and pupils new to English.
• Practical ways schools can help new arrivals settle into the classroom.
• The importance of communication, confidence, and belonging for multilingual learners.
• How simple resources can support early English language development.
• Strategies for helping children build relationships with teachers and peers.
• The role of inclusive practice in supporting children from diverse backgrounds.

About Buddy Box

Buddy Box is an educational resource designed to help children communicate when they are new to English. It introduces key vocabulary and language through engaging activities covering topics such as:

• The alphabet
• Numbers
• Days of the week and months of the year
• Shapes and colours
• Classroom objects
• Everyday conversations
• Food and drink
• Telling the time

The resource has been recognised by NALDIC (the National Association for Language Development in the Curriculum), the professional association for those working with and supporting children learning English as an Additional Language.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, classroom teacher, teaching assistant, or school leader, this episode offers practical inspiration for welcoming refugee learners, supporting new arrivals, and creating classrooms where every child can communicate and thrive.

Connect with Mark Hill

Find Mark Hill on LinkedIn.

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

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 real-world experiences that help educators support multilingual learners and create inclusive schools where every child belongs.

Episode 16: EAL Lead Practitioners – Making a Solid Start 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, and educators who are passionate about supporting multilingual learners and developing inclusive approaches to language education.

In Episode 16, we focus on making a solid start as an EAL Lead Practitioner or EAL Coordinator. Whether you have recently taken on responsibility for EAL, are preparing to become an EAL Lead, or are looking for ways to strengthen your school's provision, this episode offers practical guidance, solutions, and resources to support you in your role.

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 the key priorities for educators leading English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision, from understanding the needs of multilingual learners to building effective systems, supporting colleagues, and creating a whole-school approach to language development.

Starting out as an EAL Lead can feel like a challenging role, but with the right knowledge, strategies, and resources, educators can make a significant impact on the experiences and outcomes of multilingual learners.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• The first steps to take when becoming an EAL Lead Practitioner or EAL Coordinator.
• How to identify priorities and understand your school's EAL context.
• Ways to develop effective EAL provision across a school.
• Strategies for supporting teachers and colleagues with EAL practice.
• Practical resources and approaches to help you feel confident in your role.
• How to create a supportive environment where multilingual learners can thrive.

Whether you are new to EAL leadership or looking to develop your existing practice, this episode provides practical ideas and expert guidance to help you make a positive difference for multilingual learners.

Meet the experts

Dr Robert Sharples

Dr Robert Sharples is a Lecturer in Language and Education at the University of Bristol, author of Teaching EAL: Evidence-Based Strategies for the Classroom and School, and a leading voice in EAL research and practice.

Jo Thomson

Jo Thomson is Twinkl's EAL Content Writer and an experienced primary teacher with a background in leading EAL provision and supporting schools to develop inclusive approaches 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

If you enjoyed this episode of Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with colleagues. Through expert conversations and practical guidance, the podcast supports educators in developing effective EAL practice and creating inclusive classrooms where every multilingual learner can succeed.

Episode 15: Why It Works – Transition | Supporting EAL Learners Through Change 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, and educators who are passionate about supporting multilingual learners through inclusive and evidence-informed practice.

This episode is part of our Why It Works series, where we explore the research behind effective classroom approaches and explain why they make a difference for pupils learning English as an Additional Language (EAL).

In Episode 15, 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 the importance of transition for EAL learners and answer common questions from educators about how schools can support multilingual pupils as they move between classes, year groups, schools, and stages of education.

Transitions can be particularly significant for pupils learning English as an Additional Language. In this episode, Helen, Robert, and Jo discuss how effective planning, communication, and support can help new arrivals and multilingual learners feel confident, included, and ready to succeed.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why transition can be particularly important for EAL learners.
• Strategies for supporting pupils moving between year groups or schools.
• How schools can create effective transition processes for new arrivals.
• Ways to gather and share important information about multilingual learners.
• How teachers can support pupils' wellbeing, confidence, and sense of belonging.
• Practical ideas for making changes in education smoother and more inclusive.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, classroom teacher, teaching assistant, or school leader, this episode provides practical guidance to help you support multilingual learners during periods of change and ensure every pupil feels prepared for their next step.

Further reading

Why It Works – Transition

Read our accompanying blog for further guidance, strategies, and resources to support EAL learners through transition:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/blog/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

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, evidence-informed strategies that help educators understand how to support multilingual learners and create classrooms where every pupil can thrive.

Episode 14: Supporting Refugee Learners Through Education with Catherine Gladwell | 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 educational communities.

In Episode 14, Helen Bodell is joined by Catherine Gladwell, Founder and Chief Executive of Refugee Education UK, to discuss how schools can support young refugees and help them access education, develop confidence, and build brighter futures.

Refugee Education UK is a national charity supporting young refugees across the UK through education. Catherine shares her expertise on the barriers refugee learners can face, the importance of educational opportunities, and the practical ways schools can create welcoming environments where refugee and asylum-seeking pupils can thrive.

In this important conversation, Helen and Catherine explore the experiences of young refugees entering the UK education system, the role of schools in supporting belonging and inclusion, and how educators can provide effective support for learners who may be developing English as an Additional Language (EAL) while adapting to a new environment.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• The educational experiences and challenges faced by young refugees.
• How schools can create welcoming and inclusive environments for refugee learners.
• Practical approaches for supporting pupils learning English as an Additional Language (EAL).
• The importance of belonging, wellbeing, and relationships in education.
• How teachers and school communities can support refugee children and young people.
• Why access to education is central to helping young refugees build their futures.

Meet Catherine Gladwell

Catherine Gladwell is the Founder and Chief Executive of Refugee Education UK, a non-profit organisation supporting young refugees across the UK to access education and build brighter futures.

Catherine has grown Refugee Education UK from a small volunteer project into a national charity, leading its strategy and development. She has worked in 16 countries, including Afghanistan, Sudan, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti, and Jordan.

She has published research and policy papers, regularly speaks at conferences and events, and contributes to discussions about refugee education and inclusion. Catherine holds a degree from Oxford University, a Master's degree in Education and International Development from the Institute of Education, and is an honorary fellow at Winchester University.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, classroom teacher, teaching assistant, school leader, or education professional, this episode provides valuable insight into supporting refugee learners and creating education systems where every young person has the opportunity to succeed.

Find out more

Refugee Education UK:

https://www.reuk.org/

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

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 the experiences, research, and practical strategies that help educators support multilingual learners and create inclusive schools where every child and young person can flourish.

Episode 13: Developing a First Language Policy in Schools with Dr Eowyn Crisfield | 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 approaches to language education.

In Episode 13, Helen Bodell is joined by Dr Eowyn Crisfield, a specialist in bilingualism, bilingual education, and teacher training, to discuss the development of Jersey’s First Language Policy and the importance of valuing pupils’ home languages in education.

In this fascinating conversation, Helen and Eowyn explore why recognising and supporting children’s first languages is essential for multilingual learners, how schools can create more inclusive language policies, and the benefits of embracing bilingualism as an educational strength.

Dr Crisfield shares insights from her recent work with the Jersey Education Department, where she contributed to the development of a policy designed to support the role of first languages in schools. Together, they discuss how educators can move beyond seeing home languages as barriers and instead recognise them as valuable tools that support identity, belonging, and learning.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why schools should value and support pupils’ first languages.
• The importance of developing a whole-school language policy.
• How bilingualism benefits children’s learning and identity.
• Practical considerations when creating a first language policy.
• The relationship between home languages, belonging, and educational success.
• How schools can better support multilingual learners and their families.

Meet Dr Eowyn Crisfield

Dr Eowyn Crisfield is a Canadian-educated specialist in bilingualism, bilingual education, and teacher training. She has more than 20 years of experience in Applied Linguistics, with expertise spanning research, teaching, curriculum development, teacher education, and supporting bilingual families.

Eowyn holds a B.Ed. in Teaching English as a Second/Foreign Language and a Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics, specialising in language learning, language teaching, and bilingual education. She is currently a Senior Lecturer at Oxford Brookes University in English Language and TESOL, with a focus on the PG Cert Teaching Multilingual Learners.

She is also an active member of research organisations and serves on the executive committee of NALDIC, the UK's EAL subject association.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, classroom teacher, school leader, or education professional, this episode offers valuable insights into bilingual education, language policy, and the ways schools can celebrate and support multilingual learners.

Further reading

Jersey First Language Policy

You can read the policy discussed in this episode here:

https://www.gov.je/SiteCollectionDocuments/Education/P%20Language%20Policy%2020211108.pdf

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

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 the research, experiences, and practical strategies that help educators support multilingual learners and create schools where every language is valued.

Episode 12: Welcoming New Arrivals and Supporting Refugee Pupils with Christina Hingley | 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, welcoming schools.

In Episode 12, Helen Bodell is joined by Christina Hingley, a Modern Foreign Languages educator and whole-school coordinator at Firth Park Academy in Sheffield, to discuss how schools can effectively welcome and support new arrivals learning English as an Additional Language (EAL).

Firth Park Academy is a diverse secondary school community with more than 60 nationalities and over 30 languages spoken among its students. Christina shares her experience of developing a whole-school approach to language development, including creating a dedicated New to English intervention programme, organising in-class support, and delivering ESOL lessons for Key Stage 4 students.

In this episode, Helen and Christina explore the practical steps schools can take to help newly arrived pupils settle into education, develop their English language skills, and feel a strong sense of belonging. They also discuss the importance of pastoral support, inclusive practice, and trauma-informed approaches when supporting refugee pupils, including unaccompanied minors and looked-after children.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How schools can create effective welcome programmes for new arrivals.
• Strategies for supporting pupils who are new to English.
• How to develop language support across a secondary school setting.
• The importance of pastoral care and belonging for multilingual learners.
• Trauma-informed approaches when supporting refugee pupils.
• Ways to create safe, inclusive classrooms where every learner can thrive.

Meet Christina Hingley

Christina Hingley is an experienced Modern Foreign Languages educator and whole-school coordinator at Firth Park Academy in Sheffield. Passionate about language development and inclusion, Christina leads a range of initiatives supporting multilingual learners, including New to English interventions, mainstream classroom support, and ESOL provision.

As the school's EAL cohort has grown to include more refugee pupils, particularly unaccompanied minors and looked-after children, Christina has developed further expertise in pastoral and trauma-informed support to help create a safe and welcoming environment for all students.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, classroom teacher, teaching assistant, or school leader, this episode offers practical guidance and inspiration for welcoming new arrivals and supporting multilingual learners as they begin their educational journey.

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

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 brings together educators and experts in multilingual education to explore practical strategies, research, and real-world experiences that help schools support every learner.