The Ponds High School EAL/D Program
The Ponds High School is a culturally and linguistically diverse school, with students speaking a range of over 50 different languages and dialects. English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D) students may be overseas-born or Australian-born students, whose first language or dialect is a language other than English.
EAL/D students are often skilled bilingual, multilingual or dialectal learners who have strong skills and knowledge in their first language or dialect but may require targeted support to access and demonstrate success with the linguistic and cultural demands of the curriculum.
At The Ponds High School, the EAL/D specialist teachers and the classroom teachers work collaboratively to use culturally and linguistically inclusive strategies that support learners to participate in class activities and help them improve their English proficiency. These strategies include encouraging the use of their first language, using scaffolds and differentiating reading, learning and assessments. In addition, the school provides in-class support and lunch time support lessons for EAL/D students based on their individual needs. The EAL/D specialist teachers monitor and assess each supported students' progress through on-going professional assessment, which ensures that they receive appropriate support from the school.