Episode 33: When EAL Meets MFL with Bethan McHugh | Supporting Multilingualism in Language Learning | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Welcome to Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, the podcast for teachers, school leaders, EAL specialists, MFL teachers, and educators who are passionate about supporting multilingual learners and celebrating the power of languages.

In Episode 33, Helen Bodell is joined by Bethan McHugh, Twinkl Languages Product Owner, to explore the connection between English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Modern Foreign Languages (MFL).

Together, Helen and Bethan discuss how EAL and MFL educators can learn from each other, how multilingual pupils experience language learning, and how schools can create inclusive approaches that value all the languages children bring to the classroom.

With many classrooms becoming increasingly linguistically diverse, understanding the relationship between additional English learning and foreign language learning is essential. This episode explores how teachers can build on pupils’ existing language knowledge, encourage confidence, and make language learning accessible for everyone.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• The links between EAL and MFL teaching approaches.
• How multilingual learners’ existing languages can support further language learning.
• Ways to create inclusive MFL classrooms.
• How teachers can celebrate linguistic diversity.
• The importance of making language learning accessible for all pupils.
• Practical ideas for supporting learners across different language contexts.

Language learning is a strength that connects us all. By recognising the skills multilingual learners already have, schools can create richer, more inclusive language experiences for every pupil.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, MFL teacher, classroom teacher, teaching assistant, or school leader, this episode offers valuable insight into how different areas of language education can work together to support learners.

Meet Bethan McHugh

Bethan McHugh is Twinkl Languages Product Owner and has over 20 years of experience in MFL education, curriculum development, and assessment.

She has taught French and Spanish from Key Stage 2 through to Key Stage 5 and is passionate about making language learning accessible, engaging, and inclusive for all learners.

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

If 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 practical strategies, expert insights, and inspiring conversations that help educators support multilingual learners and celebrate the languages that make classrooms unique.