Talking their language with Helen Bodell

Episode Forty-Eight - Embracing Multilingualism as an Asset with Natasha Viñales: In this episode, we sit down with Natasha Vinales, an advocate for multilingual education and equity, to explore the transformative power of multilingualism in today’s globalised world. Drawing insights from her article "Multilingualism is Not Support for Some, It is Pedagogy for All", Natasha challenges the traditional view of multilingualism as a mere "support" for non-native speakers and instead presents it as an educational asset for every learner. Through this conversation, we unpack how multilingualism can enhance cognitive abilities, foster empathy, and create a more inclusive and dynamic learning environment. Natasha makes a compelling case for why schools should view multilingualism as an opportunity, not just a challenge, and how it can enrich classroom practices for all students not just those who speak multiple languages at home. Tune in as we discuss strategies for incorporating multilingualism into mainstream pedagogy, the benefits of bilingual and multilingual students, and the importance of rethinking language education in schools. Whether you're an educator, a parent, or someone passionate about linguistic diversity, this episode will offer valuable insights into how multilingualism can strengthen communities and elevate learning for everyone. If you would like to sign up to Twinkl EAL please follow this link: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3 All of our Twinkl EAL resources can be found by clicking here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t Book free tickets for our online CPD sessions: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299 Read the article - Multilingualism Is Not Support for Some; It Is Pedagogy for All: https://www.tieonline.com/article/7944/multilingualism-is-not-support-for-some-it-is-pedagogy-for-all

Episode Forty-Seven - In Conversation with NALDIC: Championing Multilingualism: In this episode, I’m joined by Christina Richardson, Chair of NALDIC, and Tracey Costley, Vice Chair of NALDIC. NALDIC (National Association for Language Development in the Curriculum) is the UK’s leading subject association for English as an Additional Language (EAL). The organisation supports educators working with multilingual learners across all phases of education, promotes research-informed practice, influences national policy, and advocates for high-quality provision for children and young people who use English as an additional language. In our conversation, we explore the implications of the new Ofsted framework and current curriculum reviews, reflecting on what these changes mean for multilingual learners and those who teach them. We discuss multilingualism in today’s educational landscape, including both the opportunities and challenges facing schools, and consider how NALDIC continues to champion inclusive, evidence-informed approaches. Christina and Tracey also share what NALDIC is doing this year to support multilingual educators and learners - from professional development and research initiatives to strengthened advocacy and community-building across the sector. Finally, we talk about the exciting new partnership between NALDIC and Twinkl EAL. We discuss what this collaboration means in practice: expanding access to high-quality EAL resources, amplifying research-informed classroom strategies, and creating greater support for educators working with multilingual learners across the UK and beyond.

Episode Forty-Six - Understanding the Silent Period in Multilingual Classrooms with Adrienn Szlapak: In this episode, we speak with Adri about the silent period in EAL - what it is, why it’s a natural and typical part of language acquisition, and why there is still not enough high-quality CPD available to help educators understand and support it effectively. Adri shares practical insights to help schools reframe silence not as a concern, but as a crucial stage in the language-learning journey. Adri is an experienced EAL/ESL specialist and academic manager. Once an EAL learner herself, she draws on her lived experience and deep commitment to plurilingual education in her role as Elementary EAL Leader at St Joseph's Institution International School Malaysia. Passionate about professional learning, Adri regularly attends and presents at international conferences. She serves on the IATEFL YLTSIG committee as Blog Editor, leads the Primary EAL Network for the Association of International Malaysian Schools, and runs her own blog at www.EALDiaries.com. If you would like to sign up to Twinkl EAL please follow this link: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3 All of our Twinkl EAL resources can be found by clicking here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t Book free tickets for our online CPD sessions: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

Episode Forty-Five - SALT Meets EAL: Practical Language Insights with Ella McKenzie: Ella is a Specialist Speech and Language Therapist and the Speech and Language Therapy Educational Content Lead at Twinkl, with experience supporting communication across early years, clinic, specialist provision, and mainstream school settings. Ella has worked closely with educators, families, and multidisciplinary teams to create inclusive environments that enable every learner to communicate with confidence. Her areas of interest include early language development, Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), and the use of total communication approaches; supporting individuals to understand and express themselves through speech, signs, symbols, and visuals. Ella has led whole-school communication initiatives, delivered staff training, and contributed to SEND strategy and EHCP planning to ensure communication is embedded at every level of school life. In her role at Twinkl, Ella focuses on designing evidence-based, practical resources that make communication support accessible and achievable for all educators. She is passionate about bridging the gap between therapy and classroom practice, empowering educators to build communication-friendly environments to support every learner.  In this episode we discuss SALT and EAL strategies to support language acquisition. You can find all of our SALT Twinkl resources here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/inclusion-teaching-resources/speech-language-and-communication-areas-of-need-primary-send-inclusion-teaching-resources If you would like to sign up to Twinkl EAL please follow this link: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3 All of our Twinkl EAL resources can be found by clicking here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t Book free tickets for our online CPD sessions: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

Episode Forty-Four – Inclusive Reading for Multilingual Classrooms with the Twinkl Originals Team: In this episode, we sit down with the Twinkl Originals team - a talented group of teachers, illustrators, and designers passionate about creating inclusive children’s books. Together, they share how Twinkl Originals stories are designed to give every child, including multilingual learners, easy access to a huge library of engaging reading experiences. We explore how inclusive storytelling can support EAL (English as an Additional Language) learners, open doors to reading confidence, and celebrate diversity in the classroom. Whether read as eBooks, enjoyed on the Twinkl app, or brought to life in print, Twinkl Originals books are crafted to spark curiosity and make reading accessible for all. Tune in to discover practical insights, creative inspiration, and the power of stories to connect children across languages and cultures. Discover our Originals Landing page: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/twinkl-originals Download our App: Twinkl Originals App Find Twinkl Original Printed Books here: https://shop.twinkl.co.uk/collections/twinkl-originals Discover our eBooks with audio: Twinkl Originals - Picture Books eBooks with Audio Find our Animations here: Twinkl Originals Animated Stories, Originals: First Words, Leap into Chapters

Episode Forty-Three - Building Language through Phonics with Anna Bejshovcova: In Episode 43, Building Language through Phonics, Anna Bejshovcova joins us to explore how phonics can be a powerful tool for developing both reading skills and wider language acquisition in EAL learners. Anna shares practical strategies for integrating phonics into everyday teaching, highlights common challenges, and offers tips on making phonics instruction accessible, engaging, and supportive for multilingual classrooms. This episode is packed with insights for educators looking to strengthen literacy and language outcomes through effective phonics practice. To support your phonics instruction, consider the Twinkl Phonics programme. This DfE-validated, fully comprehensive, systematic synthetic phonics teaching programme is designed for children from nursery up to Year 2. Delivered through the stories and adventures of Kit, Sam, and the Twinkl Phonics family, the scheme builds and develops the skills and understanding children need to become effective and independent readers and writers. Explore the Twinkl Phonics programme here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/twinkl-phonics/level-2-twinkl-phonics

Episode Forty-Two: Empowering Educators: Collaboration for Multilingual Learners with Exceptionalities with Dr. Andrea Honigsfeld & Dr. Audrey Cohan In this episode, we dive into a rich conversation about language learners and the groundbreaking insights from their latest book, ‘Collaboration for Multilingual Learners With Exceptionalities’. Andrea Honigsfeld, EdD, is professor in the School of Education and Human Services at Molloy University, Rockville Centre, New York, where she teaches graduate courses related to cultural and linguistic diversity and TESOL methodology. She frequently offers professional learning opportunities, primarily focusing on effective content and language integration strategies and collaborative practices for ELD and bilingual/dual language specialists and general-education teachers. She coauthored over 60 articles and chapters and coauthored or coedited over 30 books, 11 of which are national bestsellers. Find out more about Andrea here. Dr. Audrey Cohan is the Senior Dean for Research, Scholarship, and Graduate Studies at Molloy University, Rockville Centre, New York. She has been at Molloy University for thirty years during which time she served as Professor, Chairperson of the Education Department, and Interim Dean for the Division of Natural Sciences. Dr. Cohan has taught in the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. She began her career as a special education teacher in New York City working with students with special needs in both self-contained and resource room settings. In 2015, she earned TESOL certification and began focusing on multilingual learners with exceptionalities. She has co-authored and co-edited 13 books and multiple journal articles! In this episode Dr. Cohan and Dr. Honigsfeld share valuable models, strategies, and real-life stories that empower educators in supporting these students. It was an enlightening discussion, and I am so grateful to both of them for their time, expertise, and passion for this important topic! Key research links and Language Magazine Articles:  Read the Needs are Special article here Read the Collaboration is key article here Visit the Companion Website Buy the book here If you would like to sign up to Twinkl EAL please follow this link: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3 You can download our FREE EAL Membership Guide here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gldlo All of our Twinkl EAL resources can be found by clicking here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t Book free tickets for our online CPD sessions: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

Episode 41 – EAL Strategies for Trainee Teachers and ECTs In this special collaboration between the Twinkl EAL team and the Twinkl Trainee and ECT team, Simeon Care interviews Helen Bodell to explore practical strategies for supporting EAL learners as a new teacher.  Whether you're a trainee teacher (ITT) or an ECT, this episode is packed with insights, top tips, and actionable strategies to help you create an inclusive and effective learning environment for EAL students. Plus, we’ll introduce some brand-new resources, designed to support you on your journey.  Tune in for expert advice, useful tools, and plenty of inspiration to boost your confidence in the classroom! 🎧✨ EAL Support for Trainee Teachers PDF: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/lt4mi If you would like to sign up to Twinkl EAL please follow this link: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3 You can download our FREE EAL Membership Guide here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gldlo All of our Twinkl EAL resources can be found by clicking here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t Book free tickets for our online CPD sessions: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

Episode Forty - Scanning Pens: Revolutionising EAL Education with Assistive Technology featuring Quin Chandler In this exciting episode, we’re joined by Quin Chandler from Scanning Pens to explore how their innovative C Pen Reader 3 is transforming the way EAL learners of all ages engage with language. From KS1 students to adult learners and even in the workplace, the C Pen Reader 3 is bridging gaps and offering unparalleled support. Quin Chandler, Managing Director of Scanning Pens joined the company in 2019 and has spent over a decade working in the EdTech world. Passionate about making learning accessible for everyone, Quin is all about helping every learner get the tools they need to thrive. Quin dives deep into the pen's unique features, including its ability to support learners with reading, writing, and comprehension challenges. We discuss how this cutting-edge technology is not only enhancing classroom learning but also revolutionising EAL experiences in exams, ensuring learners can perform at their best under pressure. Whether you’re an educator, a learner, or a professional looking to integrate technology into your work, this episode will provide you with valuable insights into how assistive technology can make a lasting impact on EAL education. Tune in to learn more about how the C Pen Reader 3 pen is setting a new standard for accessibility and inclusion in education and beyond! If you would like to sign up to Twinkl EAL please follow this link: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3 You can download our FREE EAL Membership Guide here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gldlo All of our Twinkl EAL resources can be found by clicking here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t Book free tickets for our online CPD sessions: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

Episode Thirty-Nine - AI & EAL: Bridging Language & Technology with Sarah Guinon Sarah is committed to the study of applied linguistics, with a particular passion for EAL topics and effective strategies to support language learners. Her experience as an EAL specialist at an international school in Hong Kong has intensified her dedication to this field. Growing up in a diverse part of California, she witnessed the challenges and successes of language learners firsthand, inspiring her to focus her career on supporting EAL students and ensuring they have the tools to thrive both academically and socially. Find out about the tools Sarah talks about here: https://sarahguinonteaching.com/eal

Episode Thirty-Nine - Supporting refugees with trauma with Dr Tina Rae: Dr Tina Rae has 40 years’ experience working with children, adults, and families in clinical and educational contexts within local authorities and specialist services. She is currently working as a Consultant Educational and Child Psychologist in a range of SEMH and mainstream contexts and for fostering agencies as a Consultant Psychologist supporting foster carers, social workers and looked after children. She was an Academic and Professional tutor for the Doctorate in Educational and Child psychology (University of East London) from 2010-16. She is a registered member of the Health and Care Professions Council, a member of ENSEC (European Network for Social and Emotional Competence) and a former trustee of Nurture UK and a former member of the Advisory board for Fresh Start in Education and for The Association for Child and Adolescent mental health (ACAMH). Tina is also a member of the editorial board for the International Journal of Nurture in Education. Tina is a prolific author and has over 100 publications to date. These reflect her ongoing passion for developing practical resources for schools which have an evidence base and enable practitioners to ethically deliver effective preventative mental health interventions in schools. Buy the book: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/dzbm6 Buy Dr Tina Rae’s Refugee Discussion Cards: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/6oftf Connect with Tina on X: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1kavu7 Connect with Tina on LinkedIn: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/bij37 If you would like to sign up to Twinkl EAL please follow this link: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3 You can download our FREE EAL Membership Guide here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gldlo All of our Twinkl EAL resources can be found by clicking here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t Book free tickets for our online CPD sessions: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

Episode Thirty-Seven - EAL and SEND with Anna Bejshovcova: Anna Bejshovcova is an experienced EAL/ESL educator, teacher trainer and academic manager with more than 15 years of international teaching experience. She has a Bachelor of Education degree in EFL and a Master's degree in Applied Linguistics and ELT with a dissertation on the use of translanguaging in international schools. Anna is currently employed as an EAL coordinator for Key Stage 1 by Lanna International school in Thailand and is particularly interested in developing early literacy skills, assessment for learning and helping language learners with SEN. If you would like to sign up to Twinkl EAL please follow this link: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3 You can download our FREE EAL Membership Guide here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gldlo All of our Twinkl EAL resources can be found by clicking here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t Book free tickets for our online CPD sessions: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

Episode Thirty-Five - Leading and Succeeding in an International School: In this episode we interview Adri on the topic of leading and succeeding in an International setting. Adri is an experienced EAL/ESL specialist and academic manager. Once an EAL learner herself, she uses her unique perspective and passion for plurilingual education as the Elementary EAL Leader at St Joseph's Institution International School Malaysia. Adri is also passionate about professional development and regularly attends international conferences as a participant and speaker. She serves on the IATEFL YLTSIG committee as Blog Editor, leads the Primary EAL Network for the Association of International Malaysian Schools, as well as runs her own blog at www.EALDiaries.com. If you would like to sign up to Twinkl EAL please follow this link: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3 You can download our FREE EAL Membership Guide here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gldlo All of our Twinkl EAL resources can be found by clicking here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t Book free tickets for our online CPD sessions: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

Episode Thirty-Four - Why It Works - Planning for EAL Support: Welcome to episode thirty four and we have a new episode of our Why It Works series with Dr Robert Sharples and Jo Thomson. We discuss planning EAL support focusing on the role of the TA, supporting EAL learners in the classroom and in intervention. We hear the latest research in this area and Jo gives us evidence based strategies that you can use in your educational setting. If you would like to sign up to Twinkl EAL please follow this link: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3 You can download our FREE EAL Membership Guide here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gldlo All of our Twinkl EAL resources can be found by clicking here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t Book free tickets for our online CPD sessions: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

Episode Thirty-Three - When EAL meets MFL with Bethan McHugh: Bethan McHugh, Twinkl Languages Product Owner, has over 20 years of experience in MFL education, curriculum development and assessment. She has taught French and Spanish from KS2-5 and is passionate about making language learning accessible to all. If you would like to sign up to Twinkl EAL please follow this link: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3 You can download our FREE EAL Membership Guide here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gldlo All of our Twinkl EAL resources can be found by clicking here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t Book free tickets for our online CPD sessions: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

Episode Thirty Two - Supporting EAL Learners to Succeed in Handwriting: In this episode we speak to Bethany Harris. Bethany Harris is the Handwriting and English Intervention Product Owner at Twinkl. With a specialisation in Primary English and teaching experience in schools across the UK, Indonesia, Hong Kong, and Kuwait, Bethany brings a wealth of knowledge to her role. Prior to joining Twinkl, she served as an English Lead for several years. Her unwavering passion is to lead her team in creating high-quality resources that not only captivate and educate children but also support teachers in achieving a healthy work/life balance. If you would like to sign up to Twinkl EAL please follow this link: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3 You can download our FREE EAL Membership Guide here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gldlo All of our Twinkl EAL resources can be found by clicking here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t Book free tickets for our online CPD sessions: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

Episode Thirty-One - Multilingual Pupils and Creating Home-School Connections’ In this episode we interview Susan Stewart on the topic of ‘Multilingual pupils and creating home-school connections’. We will talk about engaging with parents in order to better understand pupils’ language portraits/profiles, how to encourage home language use, and how to tap into the cultural richness of multilingual families. Susan is Director at Articulate Multilingual and has lived and worked in South Africa, Thailand, the UAE, Belgium, Oman, Sweden and the UK. Susan has raised two bilingual children and is a lifelong learner of languages, speaking, to varying degrees, English, French, Dutch, German, Afrikaans, Swedish, Arabic and BSL. Susan has a background in international education, leading multilingual language programmes, and creating cohesive language curricula rooted in a research-driven practice. Susan delivers regular parent workshops on raising bilingual children and has a particular interest in language policy as a driving force in promoting multilingualism within families, schools, on local and national levels.  You can find Susan Stewart on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-stewart-55064249/ If you would like to sign up to Twinkl EAL please follow this link: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3 You can download our FREE EAL Membership Guide here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gldlo All of our Twinkl EAL resources can be found by clicking here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t Book free tickets for our online CPD sessions: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

Episode Thirty - Why It Works - Fostering Independence: We are back with our Why It Works series and we’ve got Dr Robert Sharples here today and our very own Jo Thomson. We are focusing this episode on ‘What do I need to do differently to make this year a success’. I think a huge part of it is creating and developing independence in your EAL learners and in your staff to ensure you (if you’re listening as the EAL lead) don’t have to take all of the work on on our own.  If you would like to sign up to Twinkl EAL please follow this link: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3 You can download our FREE EAL Membership Guide here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gldlo All of our Twinkl EAL resources can be found by clicking here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t Book free tickets for our online CPD sessions: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

Episode Twenty Nine - Why It Works - Pre-Teaching Vocabulary: In this episode we chat to Jo Thomson and Dr Robert Sharples about the importance of pre-teaching for learners particularly pre-teaching vocabulary. We offer practical ideas, resources and the research into why EAL learners benefit from pre-teaching and how you can get people at home involved too. If you would like to sign up to Twinkl EAL please follow this link: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3 You can download our FREE EAL Membership Guide here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gldlo All of our Twinkl EAL resources can be found by clicking here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t

Episode Twenty-Eight - Outdoor Learning & EAL with Sabah Malik