Episode 13: Developing a First Language Policy in Schools with Dr Eowyn Crisfield | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Episode 13: Developing a First Language Policy in Schools with Dr Eowyn Crisfield | 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 creating inclusive approaches to language education.In Episode 13, Helen Bodell is joined by Dr Eowyn Crisfield, a specialist in bilingualism, bilingual education, and teacher training, to discuss the development of Jersey’s First Language Policy and the importance of valuing pupils’ home languages in education.In this fascinating conversation, Helen and Eowyn explore why recognising and supporting children’s first languages is essential for multilingual learners, how schools can create more inclusive language policies, and the benefits of embracing bilingualism as an educational strength.Dr Crisfield shares insights from her recent work with the Jersey Education Department, where she contributed to the development of a policy designed to support the role of first languages in schools. Together, they discuss how educators can move beyond seeing home languages as barriers and instead recognise them as valuable tools that support identity, belonging, and learning.In this episode, you'll discover:Why schools should value and support pupils’ first languages.The importance of developing a whole-school language policy.How bilingualism benefits children’s learning and identity.Practical considerations when creating a first language policy.The relationship between home languages, belonging, and educational success.How schools can better support multilingual learners and their families.Meet Dr Eowyn CrisfieldDr Eowyn Crisfield is a Canadian-educated specialist in bilingualism, bilingual education, and teacher training. She has more than 20 years of experience in Applied Linguistics, with expertise spanning research, teaching, curriculum development, teacher education, and supporting bilingual families.Eowyn holds a B.Ed. in Teaching English as a Second/Foreign Language and a Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics, specialising in language learning, language teaching, and bilingual education. She is currently a Senior Lecturer at Oxford Brookes University in English Language and TESOL, with a focus on the PG Cert Teaching Multilingual Learners.She is also an active member of research organisations and serves on the executive committee of NALDIC, the UK's EAL subject association.Whether you are an EAL Lead, classroom teacher, school leader, or education professional, this episode offers valuable insights into bilingual education, language policy, and the ways schools can celebrate and support multilingual learners.Further readingJersey First Language PolicyYou can read the policy discussed in this episode here:https://www.gov.je/SiteCollectionDocuments/Education/P%20Language%20Policy%2020211108.pdfExplore 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. Each episode explores the research, experiences, and practical strategies that help educators support multilingual learners and create schools where every language is valued.