The English as a Second Language Program has been designed to meet the needs of students who speak a language other than English. The primary goal is to develop language skills, which will allow students to be successful in their academic work as well as in everyday communication. Norwich International school is an international school which respects and celebrates Thai culture. Therefore, we wish our students to acquire English as an additional language rather than replacing their native language. Further, we believe that native language proficiency contributes to additional language acquisition.

Our KS3 English Second Language (ESL) programme runs from Year 7 to Year 9 and is based on Cambridge’s Global English programme, leading into the Cambridge Checkpoint at the end of year 9. The programme teaches all of the important skills for English learners; Speaking, Listening, Reading, Writing and Use of English (Grammar). We also offer additional support for students with greater English needs; ESL teachers support ESL students in their mainstream class by co-teaching, working with small groups or individual students. Our ESL staff also provide small group classes for some EAL students. In these classes, students learn and practice vocabulary, structures, and language functions that they will need to access the content curricula.

Language acquisition is a long-term process, with learners moving through developmental stages at varying rates. One of the biggest keys to success is the collaboration between the ESL support teacher and homeroom or subject teachers. The ESL department works closely with subject teachers to ensure the needs of our students are being met.