Episode 47: In Conversation with NALDIC – Championing Multilingualism with Christina Richardson and Tracey Costley | The Future of EAL Education in the UK | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Welcome 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 educational opportunities for every child and young person.

In Episode 47, Helen Bodell is joined by Christina Richardson, Chair of NALDIC, and Tracey Costley, Vice Chair of NALDIC, for a conversation about the future of English as an Additional Language (EAL), multilingual education, and the importance of championing language diversity in schools.

NALDIC (National Association for Language Development in the Curriculum) is the UK’s leading subject association for EAL. The organisation supports educators working with multilingual learners across all phases of education, promotes research-informed practice, contributes to educational discussions, and advocates for high-quality provision for children and young people who use English as an additional language.

Together, Helen, Christina, and Tracey explore the current landscape of EAL education, including policy developments, curriculum changes, and the opportunities and challenges facing schools supporting multilingual learners.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• The role of NALDIC in supporting EAL educators across the UK.
• Current developments in multilingual education.
• What changes in Ofsted and curriculum guidance could mean for EAL learners.
• The importance of research-informed practice for multilingual classrooms.
• How schools can continue to celebrate and support linguistic diversity.
• How professional networks and partnerships strengthen EAL provision.

The conversation highlights the importance of recognising multilingualism as a strength and ensuring that learners who use English as an additional language receive the support, opportunities, and recognition they deserve.

Helen, Christina, and Tracey also discuss the exciting partnership between NALDIC and Twinkl EAL, exploring how collaboration can increase access to high-quality resources, share effective classroom strategies, and support educators working with multilingual learners across the UK and beyond.

Meet NALDIC

NALDIC (National Association for Language Development in the Curriculum) is the UK’s subject association for EAL. It works to support practitioners, promote research and improve educational outcomes for multilingual learners.

Through professional development, research, networking, and advocacy, NALDIC helps educators develop effective approaches for supporting pupils learning English as an additional language.

Explore more Twinkl EAL resources

Join Twinkl EAL:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/72uh3

Browse the full Twinkl EAL resource collection:

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gx63t

Free EAL CPD sessions

Book your free online EAL CPD sessions:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-twinkl-eal-collection-2587299

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