Episode 21: Translanguaging with Jacob Huckle | Harnessing Multilingualism in the Classroom | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Episode 21: Translanguaging with Jacob Huckle | Harnessing Multilingualism in the Classroom | 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 celebrating the power of language diversity.In Episode 21, Helen Bodell is joined by Jacob Huckle, EAL teacher and Head of Multilingual Learning at a British international school in Suzhou, China, to explore the concept of translanguaging and how schools can use pupils’ full linguistic repertoires as a resource for learning.Translanguaging is an approach that recognises multilingual learners’ languages as valuable tools for communication, understanding, identity, and academic success. In this episode, Helen and Jacob discuss how educators can move beyond seeing additional languages as barriers and instead embrace multilingualism as a strength within the classroom.Jacob shares his experience of designing policies and systems that celebrate linguistic and cultural diversity, helping schools create environments where all learners can draw on their languages and experiences to support learning.In this episode, you'll discover:What translanguaging means and why it matters for multilingual learners.How schools can use pupils’ home languages to support learning.The benefits of recognising multilingualism as a classroom resource.Practical strategies for implementing translanguaging approaches.How language and culture contribute to identity and belonging.Lessons from multilingual education in an international school context.Meet Jacob HuckleJacob Huckle is an EAL teacher and Head of Multilingual Learning at a British international school in Suzhou, China. He works on developing policies and systems that use the linguistic and cultural diversity of the school community as a resource to enrich learning for all students.Alongside his teaching role, Jacob is a part-time doctoral student researching multilingualism and intercultural understanding in international education. His work explores how schools can better support diverse communities through inclusive approaches to language learning.Whether you are an EAL Lead, classroom teacher, international educator, school leader, or someone interested in multilingual education, this episode provides valuable insight into how translanguaging can transform the way we think about language in schools.Further readingRead our accompanying blog for further ideas, strategies, and resources: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. Each episode explores research, practical strategies, and inspiring conversations that help educators support multilingual learners and create inclusive classrooms where every language is valued.