Above & left: The British School in the Netherlands
languages represented in class and excited to share something so integral to their cultural identity with their classmates.
DEVELOPING CULTURAL AWARENESS On describing the programme, one parent said, “[My daughter] had the freedom to work in English or Spanish – or both. It was so good for her self-esteem. She felt like she had choices, not limitations on her languages. Translanguaging has given a depth to [her] language that I did not expect.” The benefits of translanguaging are not lost on native English speakers. Even the students who speak English as their home language are active language learners. They are encouraged to use their Dutch alongside English on a day-to-day basis.
Making sure the multicultural aspect of the BSN is integrated into every class nurtures a heightened cultural awareness and respect for differences between all members of our international community, and makes sure each student knows that their unique identities, families and backgrounds are valued. Translanguaging is an important tool for expanding rather than restricting multilingualism and cultural identity, while still delivering excellent English as an Additional Language (EAL) education.
For more information, follow the BSN English as an Additional Language team on Twitter here: @BSN_EAL
