Cambridge Assessment has raised concerns about the lack of appropriate assessment of EAL in UK schools. In a recent ' Viewpoint' article, the not-for-profit exam board and assessment agency as argued that 'As experts in assessment, we believe a debate is needed to help construct useful ways of measuring English as an additional language (EAL) development and that research is required on the relation between bilingualism and special educational needs.'
The agency is hosting an event in central London on 22 May 2012 to debate the key issues and wants to hear views from the field. If you would like to take participate or attend the debate please email the agency directly.
Whilst NALDIC is delighted that a major UK agency is taking an interest in this area, we are somewhat concerned that the focus in the Viewpoint article appears to be on distinguishing EAL learners from those who have learning difficulties. The concerns expressed about learning difficulties and the difficulties spotting gifted and talented students suggest that the agency may be considering assessments linked to the notion of 'ability' rather than the much more pressing need to consider English as an additional language assessment.