Episode 5: How Teaching Assistants Can Support EAL Learners with Hannah Harris | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Episode 5: How Teaching Assistants Can Support EAL Learners with Hannah Harris | Talking Their Language with Helen BodellWelcome to Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, the podcast for teachers, teaching assistants, school leaders, and EAL specialists who are passionate about supporting multilingual learners and creating inclusive classrooms.In Episode 5, Helen Bodell is joined by Hannah Harris from the Twinkl TA Digest team to explore the vital role that Teaching Assistants (TAs) play in supporting pupils learning English as an Additional Language (EAL).Teaching Assistants are often the first point of support for multilingual learners, whether in the classroom, during small-group interventions, or when welcoming pupils who are new to English. In this episode, Helen and Hannah discuss practical strategies that help TAs build learners' confidence, develop language skills, and encourage participation across the curriculum.Together, they share ideas for creating language-rich learning environments, delivering effective intervention sessions, and working alongside teachers to ensure multilingual learners receive the support they need to thrive academically and socially.In this episode, you'll discover:The important role of Teaching Assistants in supporting EAL learners.Practical classroom strategies to develop language and communication skills.How to deliver effective intervention sessions for multilingual learners.Ways to build confidence and encourage pupil participation.Tips for collaborating with teachers to provide consistent support across the school day.Whether you're a Teaching Assistant, classroom teacher, EAL Lead, or school leader, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you better support multilingual learners at every stage of their language journey.Further readingTop Ten Tips for Teaching Assistants Supporting EAL LearnersDiscover practical advice and classroom-ready ideas in our accompanying blog:https://www.twinkl.co.uk/blog/ealExplore more Twinkl EAL resourcesJoin Twinkl EAL:https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3Browse the full Twinkl EAL resource collection:https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63tAccess FREE EAL CPD webinars and events:https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299If you enjoyed this episode of Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with colleagues. Each episode brings together educators and experts to share practical strategies, research, and real classroom experiences that help schools create inclusive environments where multilingual learners can flourish.