EAL Assessments

Supporting EAL Learners to Thrive

Accurate EAL assessment helps settings understand a learner’s language development, strengths and barriers to learning. It goes beyond a standard literacy assessment, providing a clear picture of how pupils use English across listening, speaking, reading, writing and the curriculum. Our assessments are tailored to each learner and setting, providing clear findings and practical next steps for teaching and intervention.

What our assessments include

A language proficiency profile covering listening, speaking, reading and writing
Observation in classroom or play-based settings
Consideration of first language and cultural background
Assessment of cognitive and academic skills where appropriate
Identification of strengths, barriers and areas for development
Practical recommendations for teaching and intervention
A detailed written report for staff, SENCOs and parents

Effective assessment can help settings distinguish between language acquisition needs and other learning needs, plan targeted support, monitor progress and evaluate EAL provision.

Types of EAL Assessments Available

Below is an overview of the assessment types we provide.

Individual EAL assessments
Initial and baseline assessments establish a clear starting point by considering home languages, previous education, English proficiency, literacy and classroom readiness. A full written report supports appropriate planning and progress monitoring.

Ongoing language and curriculum assessments
Progress and diagnostic assessments track English development, identify specific language needs and support planning. These can cover vocabulary, grammar, academic language, reading, writing, speaking and listening, classroom communication and curriculum access. Observational assessment can also capture language development through play and interaction, particularly in Early Years.

First language and background assessments
Where appropriate, first-language assessment and family interviews provide a fuller picture of literacy, language use, previous education and learning experiences. This can help identify strengths and distinguish language acquisition needs from potential underlying difficulties.

CAML – Cognitive Assessment for Multilingual Learners
CAML provides a culturally responsive assessment of cognitive skills without relying on English proficiency. It explores areas such as memory, reasoning, problem-solving, processing speed and pattern recognition. CAML can help settings distinguish language-related needs from possible underlying learning difficulties, reducing the risk of misidentifying SEND and supporting more appropriate planning, differentiation and intervention. It can also provide a transferable cognitive profile to support transitions between settings.

The English Language Proficiency Scale

Our assessments use the nationally recognised EAL Proficiency Scale, which has been widely used by schools in England. Although the Department for Education no longer requires the scale, many schools and local authorities continue to use it voluntarily to assess language development, plan support and monitor progress. We assess English development across four key areas:

Listening
Speaking
Reading
Writing

Learners are assessed against the relevant proficiency stages, providing a consistent framework for understanding language development and planning support.

Ready to Book an EAL Assessment?

If you need greater clarity about a multilingual learner’s strengths, needs and next steps, we can help.

Choose your next step:

Book an EAL Assessment
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EAL Assessments

Supporting EAL Learners to Thrive

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