Thematic report |
How effective is provision for learners aged 16 to 19 years with language acquisition needs? - July 2009
In general, teachers and learners feel that support for learners with English language acquisition needs for 16-19 year-olds is good. However, there are not enough qualified staff who can support learners for whom English is an additional or second language. As a result, a vast majority of these learners are failing to keep up with the pace of lessons or training sessions.In addition, there is a lack of national strategy to bring together the organisations working with learners with English language acquisition needs which has led to variation in provision between further education and schools.
Recommendations
The Welsh Assembly Government should:
- establish a national strategic lead for learners with English language acquisition needs;
- develop a strategic plan with clear objectives and priorities for the support of learners who have English language acquisition needs; and
- appoint a specialist officer for the implementation of these objectives and priorities.
Providers should:
- improve the skills of front line teachers to support learners with English language acquisition needs; and
- strengthen the resources to ensure there are sufficient specialist qualified support staff to meet learner needs.
Children and Young People’s Partnerships should:
- develop a policy for sharing information effectively between key partners;
- evaluate and improve transition planning for learners with English language acquisition needs; and
- develop and implement a strategy to ensure that vulnerable learners receive targeted support.