Episode 9: Why It Works – Being an EAL Lead | Guidance for EAL Coordinators with Dr Robert Sharples and Jo Thomson | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Episode 9: Why It Works – Being an EAL Lead | Guidance for EAL Coordinators with Dr Robert Sharples and Jo Thomson | Talking Their Language with Helen BodellWelcome to Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, the podcast for teachers, school leaders, EAL specialists, and educators who are passionate about supporting multilingual learners and developing inclusive approaches to language learning.This episode is part of our Why It Works series, where we explore the evidence behind effective approaches for supporting pupils learning English as an Additional Language (EAL).In Episode 9, Helen Bodell is joined by Dr Robert Sharples, Lecturer in Language and Education at the University of Bristol and author of Teaching EAL: Evidence-Based Strategies for the Classroom and School, alongside Jo Thomson, Twinkl's EAL Content Writer and experienced primary teacher.Together, they explore the role of the EAL Lead and what effective EAL leadership looks like in schools. Whether you are aspiring to become an EAL Lead, have recently taken on the role, or are an experienced EAL Coordinator looking for further guidance, this episode provides practical advice, research-informed strategies, and useful ideas to support your work.Helen, Robert, and Jo discuss how EAL Leads can develop whole-school approaches, support colleagues, advocate for multilingual learners, and ensure that pupils learning English as an Additional Language receive effective and inclusive support.In this episode, you'll discover:What the role of an EAL Lead involves.How to develop effective EAL provision across a school.Strategies for supporting teachers to work confidently with multilingual learners.How to identify priorities and create an EAL action plan.The importance of evidence-informed practice in EAL leadership.Advice and guidance for aspiring and current EAL Coordinators.Being an EAL Lead involves more than supporting individual pupils it is about developing a whole-school culture where language development is valued and every learner has the opportunity to succeed.Whether you are an EAL Lead, classroom teacher, school leader, or educator looking to strengthen your knowledge of multilingual education, this episode offers practical ideas and professional guidance to help you make a positive impact.Further readingWhy It Works – Being an EAL LeadRead our accompanying blog for further guidance, strategies, and resources for EAL leaders: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/1gx63tIf you enjoyed this episode of Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with colleagues. The Why It Works series explores the evidence behind effective teaching approaches, helping educators understand the strategies that support multilingual learners and why they make a difference in classrooms.