In the time after schools reopened, the topic on all educators’ minds remains that of post-pandemic learning loss and catch-up. A June 2021 report by the Department for Education estimated that the average primary-school pupil had lost 1.8 months of reading learning by the first half term of autumn 2020/21.[1]
However, national averages do not tell the story of individuals, nor do they reflect that various groups were affected in different ways by school closure. The same report found that school closure had a particularly negative impact on EAL learners, who made less progress in catching up after learning loss. ‘Pupils with English as an additional language experienced catch-up of around 0.4 months, compared with around 0.6 months for all primary aged pupils’. This means EAL learners are catching up at just two-thirds of the speed.
Responses provided by teachers in a Lambeth Survey testify to this greater impact not only in reading, but across the curriculum: ‘69% of leadership respondents reported that upon returning to school, non-fluent EAL learners have shown a greater impact on their curriculum learning compared to their non-EAL peers.’[2]
EAL students face dual loss of language and curriculum learning, with the former an essential prerequisite to the latter. It is therefore vital that their post-lockdown catch-up focus not only on curriculum learning, but also on rebuilding language confidence and competence. If not, these students risk being unable to properly connect with curriculum topics, depriving them of the opportunity to fulfil their potential.
That’s why we are providing EVERY EAL LEARNER, their parents, and their teachers with FREE access for the 2021/2022 academic year. Get in touch to learn more.
We are delighted to support all UK Primary Schools and we are hosting several live webinars to demonstrate the huge tangible impact Rockerbox News is having in schools and with learners around the globe.
Join us live (or on demand) and see Rockerbox News in action. Learn how the tool will complement your teaching and learning strategies in school, out of school, and while your students are on the move.
[1]https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/994350/Understanding_Progress_in_the_2020_21_Academic_Year_Report_2.pdf
[2]https://www.lambeth.gov.uk/rsu/sites/www.lambeth.gov.uk.rsu/files/the_impact_of_school_closure_on_pupils_with_english_as_an_additional_language_-_research_brief_2021.pdf
