English Language

English is the teaching medium of the school and there is an expectation that all students will have, or will acquire, a level of English proficiency that allows them to achieve success within the programmes we offer. The school provides English as an Additional Language Support programme for those students whose English is not yet strong enough to do this. However, it should be stressed that non-English speaking students should gain maximum prior exposure to the language. If a student does not have a satisfactory standard of English at the time of application, the Headmaster may refuse admission if there is no appropriate curriculum to cater for the student’s needs.

The school provides both sheltered and immersion programmes for EAL students. Sheltered means that students are withdrawn for various periods of time from regular classes and work with EAL staff, and may receive some in-class language support. It also means that, in some subject areas, there are designated EAL classes. Other than this students are immersed in regular classes alongside their peers. In Junior School EAL students are immersed in classes with teacher and peer support.

This model, typical of international schools, provides for the language development of all students regardless of their background. It provides access to classes for students regardless of language proficiency and academic ability.

In Grades 8-12, the curriculum requires a high level of English proficiency. Applicants for these grades will be formally assessed, prior to acceptance, in order to determine their language suitability for the appropriate programmes of study.