English as an Additional Language

Glen Eira College students come from a rich mix of language backgrounds with many of our  students having English as an Additional Language (EAL). As a result GEC is able to offer stand alone EAL classes from years 9 to 12. Depending on student numbers, Year 7 and 8 EAL students may have their own class or be placed in an English class with a qualified EAL teacher. We work closely with the staff of the on-campus English Language Centre (ELC) to help students moving from the centre into the college. We have qualified and experienced teachers delivering an excellent program for EAL students.

7-10 EAL

The EAL program has all the essential elements of the English program: a focus on developing students’ skills in reading, writing and speaking and listening. However, the EAL program has an additional focus on assisting students with the literacy requirements of schooling. Students also study literature and linguistics (including grammar).

VCE EAL

To qualify for EAL in VCE a student must have no more than 7 years with English as their main language of instruction or have less than 7 years residency in a predominately English-speaking country (at the time of completion of Year 12). For example, most Malaysian students qualify even though some subjects are taught in English from Year 7. Students who come from international schools often do not qualify if they have been taught in English for more than 7 years. Our VCE program’s design is dictated by the VCE EAL Study Design. A high level of skills is required to undertake the VCE course successfully.