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English as an Additional Language

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About 20% of our pupils are international students from approximately 25 countries. 

We are committed to making appropriate provision of teaching and resources if English is an additional language for your son. The English as an Additional Language (EAL) Department will identify his needs at the earliest opportunity and ensure that he is able to use English confidently and competently across the curriculum.

Assessing needs

The Head of EAL liaises with the Head of the Faculty of Support for Learning, the two other members of the EAL department, and other academic departments to support your son’s needs. He will be assessed by the Head of Department, who will establish what prior subject knowledge and experience he has in other subjects. 

Personalised support

Your son will receive a programme tailored to meet his needs, including small group or one-to-one support. His class/subject teachers will plan collaboratively with EAL focusing on both language and subject content. To ensure he is doing as well as he can, your son’s progress and attainment as an EAL learner will be closely monitored. We appreciate that your son’s conceptual thinking may be in advance of his ability to speak English. That is why we make certain the cognitive challenge remains appropriately high and is not reduced because the English language demand has been reduced.

School News

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Pupils at Merchiston Castle School standing for a minute of silence by the Garden of Remembrance in November 2023

Thank you to everyone who joined us last Sunday for our annual Service of Remembrance.

Young children at the Tennis Dome at Merchiston Castle School during a fundraiser event

Another birthday, another fundraiser! A staggering £1,500+ raised for Mr Millar's birthday fundraiser at the Dome.

variety of different flags from around the world

It is a wrap on this year's International Week! Find out more about what the boys got to experience. 

graphic logo with black moustache on white field

Help us fundraise for Men's Health in the month on November!