Ratcliffe College is proud to meet the standards required for British Council accreditation, reflecting our commitment to excellence in English language teaching for international students.
Ratcliffe College offers a high-quality English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme designed to support international students in developing the confidence and fluency they need to succeed both academically and socially. Our EAL provision enables students to access the full curriculum while becoming fully immersed in school life.
At Ratcliffe College, we warmly welcome international students whose first language is not English. We offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) support to international students who require additional help to develop their English language skills and to access the curriculum with confidence.
Each year, a significant proportion of our international students join the College from non-English-speaking backgrounds, contributing to a diverse, multi-lingual school community within the setting of a forward-thinking British independent day and boarding school. This international perspective enriches both academic life and the wider cultural and boarding experience at Ratcliffe.
Our inclusive approach ensures international students feel supported, valued and fully integrated into school life while they develop the language skills needed to thrive academically and socially.
From the moment students join Ratcliffe, their English language skills are carefully assessed by our experienced EAL staff. This ensures that each student receives tailored support matched to their individual needs, learning style and academic goals.
Personalised Language Support
EAL tuition at Ratcliffe College is delivered through a combination of:
- Small group lessons
- One-to-one support where appropriate
- In-class strategies to support subject learning
Lessons focus on developing speaking, listening, reading and writing skills, as well as academic vocabulary and exam technique. Support is flexible and reviewed regularly, allowing students to progress confidently and reduce their reliance on EAL provision over time.
Integration and Academic Success
Our EAL programme is designed to complement the mainstream curriculum rather than sit apart from it. Students are encouraged to participate fully in lessons, co-curricular activities and boarding or day school life, helping them to build friendships, confidence and cultural understanding.
Close communication between EAL teachers, subject staff and pastoral teams ensures that students receive consistent support across all areas of school life.
British Council Accredited EAL Provision
Ratcliffe College is Accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK reflecting our commitment to excellence in English language teaching for international students.
British Council accreditation recognises:
- High-quality English language tuition
- Qualified and experienced EAL teachers
- Robust safeguarding and pastoral care
- Clear assessment and progression frameworks
This accreditation provides reassurance to parents and guardians that pupils at Ratcliffe College receive English language support that meets internationally recognised benchmarks.
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Cambridge English | IELTS examinations
International students receiving EAL tuition are prepared for Cambridge English or IELTS examinations, as appropriate, with the aim of achieving globally recognised English qualifications.
As an approved Centre for Cambridge Assessment English , Ratcliffe College offers the added value and expertise of enabling international students to sit Cambridge English examinations on campus, providing a supportive and familiar examination environment.
EAL Policy
Further details about our approach to English as an Additional Language, including admissions, curriculum, assessment and ongoing support, can be found in our EAL Policy:
British Council Inspection Report
Our most recent British Council Inspection took place in 2022, confirming that the College continues to meet the required standards to be Accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.
