Shireland Collegiate Academy has been awarded the EAL Quality Mark Gold Award, recognising the school’s exceptional provision for students with English as an additional language (EAL).
The award followed a comprehensive review by the EAL Academy, which assessed the key areas of leadership and management, teaching, learning and assessment, and engagement with families and the wider community.
The review considered how well EAL teaching is embedded in school plans and policies, how students are supported across subjects, and how effectively the Academy works with families to promote language development and inclusion. As a result of this thorough assessment and the school’s ongoing commitment, Shireland was awarded the Gold Award for exceptional practice.
Principal, Thomas Daly, commented: “At Shireland, we believe that a student’s background or starting point should never limit their education. Language is just one of the many barriers we work to remove so every child can reach their highest potential.
“This Gold Award recognises the dedication of our staff and the systems we have put in place to support our students’ learning, confidence and engagement. It celebrates the ways we help them unlock doors to happy, fulfilling and successful futures.”
The EAL Academy, which oversees and awards the EAL Quality Mark, is an organisation of experts in school improvement and supporting students who speak English as an additional language. Since 2012, it has worked with schools nationally and internationally, offering training, advice, and accredited online courses to help teachers improve learning outcomes for EAL students.
Shireland Collegiate Academy’s award places it among a select group of schools recognised for exceptional EAL practice and reflects its commitment to high-quality teaching, inclusive leadership, and meaningful engagement with its communities. For students, it ensures language barriers do not stand in the way of achievement, allowing them to fully participate in school life and build the foundations for future success.
