School Transition for EAL Learners

This guidance provides evidence-based ideas and strategies – informed by real examples from schools – for guiding learners using English as an Additional Language (EAL) in their transition from Year 6 to Year 7.  

Breaks in curriculum continuity and adapting to new school routines, for example, are challenges that all school students face at this stage. But pupils using EAL may also have to deal with navigating a new culture, language and school system (if they have recently arrived in the UK) or experiencing anxiety or vulnerability (when at the early stages of language acquisition).   

By supporting schools to develop the processes needed to enable a smooth transition for multilingual learners, this guidance aims to improve learning environments, well-being and academic outcomes. 

What does this guidance cover?

This guidance provides information on: 

• What primary schools can do to prepare learners for the transition.  

• Ways that primary and secondary schools can work together to ensure a smooth transition. 

• What secondary schools can do to welcome new pupils into Year 7, and to support the transition to Key Stage 5. 

• Case studies providing real examples of the support given by schools to EAL learners and their families during transition.