At Bedford School, the English as an Additional Language (EAL) department plays a crucial role in supporting boys from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Under the guidance of Mr Dodgson, the EAL Coordinator, the programme has evolved to meet the unique needs of each boy, fostering both academic success and personal growth.
Mr Dodgson’s journey to becoming an EAL Coordinator was driven by his desire to make a significant difference in the lives of his pupils. Initially, teaching English as a Foreign Language was a way for him to explore the world, but he soon recognised the profound impact he could have on his pupils’ development. His teaching philosophy has evolved to prioritise helping boys not just with grammar and accuracy, but also with communicative skills and independent learning. He is dedicated to equipping his pupils with the tools they need to view language development as a lifelong process, ensuring they feel supported and empowered every step of the way.
Upper Sixth Former Jameson Liang shared his experiences of the EAL department with us, explaining, “I am lucky to have had one-to-one sessions with Mr Dodgson in Year 11. He always asked me what I want to know in English rather than teaching according to a schedule. Mr Dodgson has more than sufficient knowledge, experience and open-mindedness to support me with this style of learning. He has helped me with poems in English Literature and my personal statement when applying to a summer school project, and I just feel as if he can teach me anything. Focusing on what I did not fully understand in English Language and Literature lessons, I am able to keep my pace with everyone else in my class.”
To address the diverse needs of EAL boys, Mr Dodgson starts with a brief assessment of reading, writing, vocabulary and grammar, followed by a discussion. This approach helps in understanding each boy’s previous educational experience, subject choices and ambitions. The programme is then tailored to provide support in various areas, including different writing styles, reading skills and vocabulary learning strategies.
Constructive feedback is a key strategy used by Mr Dodgson to engage and motivate boys. By highlighting areas for improvement and acknowledging progress, the boys gain a clearer sense of their development. Promoting independent learning is also crucial, as it empowers boys to take control of their language development.
Upper Sixth Former Matthew Pitt has benefitted from the department’s support for several years and explained, “Mr Dodgson’s passion for teaching and unwavering commitment to pupils’ success have been truly inspiring. He tailors his approach to each pupil’s needs, making complex vocabulary and structures easier to grasp. He provides insightful feedback and encourages participation from every pupil.”
In classrooms with varying levels of language proficiency, collaboration is encouraged. Boys work together through group activities and peer feedback, supporting each other in the learning process. This collaborative environment helps boys with different proficiency levels to learn from one another.
Matthew went on to say, “The EAL department has been instrumental in supporting my learning journey here at Bedford School. The knowledgeable staff are always eager to assist with any questions or challenges, academic or not, fostering an environment where curiosity is encouraged, and knowledge is freely shared. This unwavering support has greatly enhanced my ability to learn and grow my confidence with the English language.”
Cultural Inclusion and Support
For international boarders whose first language might not be English, the EAL Department offers comprehensive support. One of a boarder’s first interactions with the school is to meet Mr Dodgson where he explains how lessons will work and what support is available.
Having lived abroad for many years, Mr Dodgson understands the challenges of adapting to a new country. He emphasises the importance of open discussion to help boys feel included and supported. By sharing his own experiences and lending a sympathetic ear, he helps boys navigate cultural differences and adapt to their new environment.
Lower Sixth Former Aaron Chen told us, “Mr. Dodgson has always made me feel included, it doesn’t matter whether in or out of lessons. He is also a Tutor in my Boarding House, so I can easily check in with him whenever I need help, and he helps me to come out with lot of ideas.”
Rewarding Experiences and Success Stories
For Mr Dodgson, the most rewarding aspect of working with EAL boys is witnessing their progress. He takes pride in seeing boys evolve from struggling newcomers to fully integrated members of the school community. One memorable success story involves a boy who joined the school with a low level of English and eventually earned a place at his first-choice university, becoming head of his Boarding House along the way.
Future Goals for the EAL Programme
Looking ahead, the EAL programme at Bedford School is introducing the Edexcel specification for IGCSE English as a Second Language. This new assessment will offer a variety of reading, writing and speaking tasks. Additionally, the programme plans to expand its offerings to include an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) course, providing comprehensive support for lower-level EAL pupils in their A-level/BTEC studies and university applications. An intensive programme for new Fourth Form pupils is also in development to prepare them for GCSE study.
