Episode 16: EAL Lead Practitioners – Making a Solid Start with Dr Robert Sharples and Jo Thomson | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Episode 16: EAL Lead Practitioners – Making a Solid Start 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 education.In Episode 16, we focus on making a solid start as an EAL Lead Practitioner or EAL Coordinator. Whether you have recently taken on responsibility for EAL, are preparing to become an EAL Lead, or are looking for ways to strengthen your school's provision, this episode offers practical guidance, solutions, and resources to support you in your role.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 key priorities for educators leading English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision, from understanding the needs of multilingual learners to building effective systems, supporting colleagues, and creating a whole-school approach to language development.Starting out as an EAL Lead can feel like a challenging role, but with the right knowledge, strategies, and resources, educators can make a significant impact on the experiences and outcomes of multilingual learners.In this episode, you'll discover:The first steps to take when becoming an EAL Lead Practitioner or EAL Coordinator.How to identify priorities and understand your school's EAL context.Ways to develop effective EAL provision across a school.Strategies for supporting teachers and colleagues with EAL practice.Practical resources and approaches to help you feel confident in your role.How to create a supportive environment where multilingual learners can thrive.Whether you are new to EAL leadership or looking to develop your existing practice, this episode provides practical ideas and expert guidance to help you make a positive difference for multilingual learners.Meet the expertsDr Robert SharplesDr Robert Sharples is a Lecturer in Language and Education at the University of Bristol, author of Teaching EAL: Evidence-Based Strategies for the Classroom and School, and a leading voice in EAL research and practice.Jo ThomsonJo Thomson is Twinkl's EAL Content Writer and an experienced primary teacher with a background in leading EAL provision and supporting schools to develop inclusive approaches for multilingual learners.Explore 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. Through expert conversations and practical guidance, the podcast supports educators in developing effective EAL practice and creating inclusive classrooms where every multilingual learner can succeed.