At The Knox School, we celebrate the rich cultural and linguistic diversity that shapes our vibrant community. Like many schools across Victoria, we proudly support students who are learning English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D). In our classrooms, a number of students are navigating the exciting challenge of learning English alongside other subjects.
Our EAL/D Learning Design Leader, Brooke Henderson, works closely with EAL/D students at TKS every day and emphasises that mastering the English language takes a village and doesn’t happen overnight, noting:
We recognise that learning a new language while mastering academic content can be demanding. That’s why we work in partnership with families to ensure every student receives the support they need to grow, succeed and feel confident in their learning journey – both at school and at home.
Your role as a parent is important. Research shows that children do better at school when their parents are involved in their education. You don’t need to speak English fluently to make a big difference. Your encouragement, interest and support in your home language are powerful tools.
Brooke shares some helpful tips in this article that parents can use to support their child as they navigate any new language:
How You Can Help at Home
Even if you are not fluent in English, you can make a big difference in your child’s learning. Here are some ways you can help at home:
- Speak your home language proudly – encourage your child to keep using it. A strong foundation in their first language helps them learn English more easily.
- Talk to your child about their day – ask what they learned, what they liked, or how they felt.
- Stay connected with the school – read the class news and the Knoxmail to find out what is happening in our Junior School community. Attend your child’s showcases to learn about what is happening in their classroom.
- Read with your child regularly – in your home language and/or in English. Reading in any language builds vocabulary, imagination and understanding. Books introduce children to new vocabulary and ideas. Don’t be afraid to pause and talk about the meaning of a new word.
- Check the curriculum overviews – these are sent home by your child’s teacher at the beginning of each term to let you know what they are learning. Contact the teacher if you have any questions or need advice on how to support your child with what they are learning in the classroom.
- Attend parent-teacher meetings – your voice matters, and these meetings are a great chance to ask questions or share concerns.
- Speak with our staff if you need help – we are here to support you and your child. Your classroom teacher and the EAL/D staff are available to support you and answer any questions you may have.
Building and Enriching Vocabulary
A rich vocabulary helps your child better understand what they hear and read – and express themselves clearly in both their home language and in English. The more words your child knows, the more confident and successful they will be in all areas of learning.
Here’s how you can help build your child’s vocabulary:
- Talk often – describe everyday activities, name objects around the home, and explain new words.
- Use new and interesting words – even in your home language, using a variety of words helps your child develop strong language skills.
- Explore topics your child is interested in – talk about animals, space, cooking, sports, or anything your child loves.
- Look at pictures together – ask your child to describe what they see and add new words to the conversation.
Why Your Home Language Matters
Your child’s first language is an important part of who they are. Keeping it strong:
- Helps your child feel confident and supported
- Builds general knowledge and vocabulary
- Makes it easier for them to learn English and do well in school
Home Learning and Reading at Home
If your child has Home Learning and they don’t understand it, please talk to their class teacher. We want to make sure your child feels confident and supported.
Reading is one of the best things you can do at home. Try:
- Reading to your child
- Reading with your child
- Listening to your child read
- Encouraging your child to read alone
Books can be in English or your home language. You are welcome to borrow books from our school library or your local council library. Our School Librarian, Marianne van Niekerk welcomes all families to our Junior School Library, and she is more than happy to assist in finding the right book for your child.
You are your child’s first teacher and at TKS we treasure the important role that you play as parents. Together, we can support your child to feel confident, develop their English skills and enjoy success at school.
