Language is how students learn, think and connect with others. This policy sets out the language we teach in, how we support students who are learning English, and how we value the many languages our families speak.
English is the language of instruction and assessment for all our programmes, except in language lessons and where a curriculum requires another language, such as Kiswahili within the Kenyan CBC.
All teachers help students build the language of their subject: the vocabulary of science, the structure of an argument in history, and the precise wording examiners expect. Clear written and spoken English is part of every lesson.
Students whose first language is not English are assessed when they join, and receive support matched to their level. This can include extra one-to-one sessions, glossaries of key terms, adapted materials and more time to process instructions. Support continues until the student can access the full curriculum independently, and progress is reviewed every term.
A student’s home language is a strength. Students are encouraged to keep reading, speaking and writing in it, and may use it to make sense of new ideas. Families are encouraged to keep using their home language at home.
Smartious teaches French, Spanish, German, Mandarin Chinese, Arabic, Kiswahili, Italian and Portuguese, including preparation for IGCSE, A-Level and IB examinations. Language lessons are taught mainly in the target language.
We communicate with families in English. Where a parent is more comfortable in another language, we will try to help, for example by using simpler English, meeting by video, or finding a member of staff who speaks the language.
Language in lessons, messages and the student community must be respectful. Offensive, discriminatory or bullying language is not accepted, in any language, and is handled under our code of conduct and Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy.
We review this policy at least once every 12 months.