Episode 37: EAL and SEND with Anna Bejshovcova | Supporting Multilingual Learners with Additional Needs | Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell

Welcome to Talking Their Language with Helen Bodell, the podcast for teachers, school leaders, EAL specialists, SEND practitioners, and educators who are passionate about creating inclusive learning environments for multilingual learners.

In Episode 37, Helen Bodell is joined by Anna Bejshovcova, an experienced EAL/ESL educator, teacher trainer, and academic manager, to explore the important connection between English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Together, Helen and Anna discuss how schools can support multilingual learners who may also have additional learning needs, and the importance of understanding the difference between language development and SEND.

They explore practical approaches to assessment, early literacy development, and supporting language learners with additional needs, helping educators create learning environments where every pupil can thrive.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• The relationship between EAL and SEND.
• How educators can identify and support multilingual learners with additional needs.
• The importance of appropriate assessment for EAL learners.
• Strategies for developing early literacy skills.
• How translanguaging can support inclusive practice.
• Ways to create effective support for language learners with SEND.

Supporting multilingual learners requires a clear understanding of each child’s individual journey. By considering language background, learning needs, and strengths, schools can ensure pupils receive the right support at the right time.

Whether you are an EAL Lead, SENDCO, classroom teacher, teaching assistant, or school leader, this episode provides valuable guidance for supporting multilingual learners with diverse needs.

Meet 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 holds a Bachelor of Education degree in EFL and a Master’s degree in Applied Linguistics and ELT, with her dissertation focusing on the use of translanguaging in international schools.

Anna currently works as an EAL Coordinator for Key Stage 1 at Lanna International School in Thailand. She has a particular interest in developing early literacy skills, assessment for learning, and supporting language learners with SEND.

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