New language books and revision guides for students

Sunday 21 May 2023

Primary and secondary school students will receive new books and revision guides to mark one year since a new language policy in education was launched – and it's hoped nearly all schools will have received 'Multilingualism in Education' training by the end of the year.

The Government's language policy aims to support Jersey's multilingual students, who represent 27% of all pupils in the island.

It was launched last year and was described by Education Minister, Inna Gardiner, as "the first time we've acknowledged that speaking multiple languages is a positive thing that we – as an island – should nurture so that all children can reach their potential".

Some schools have introduced more languages into their curriculum or acquired multilingual books, and they will be attending training to better understand the challenges faced by multilingual students.

The minister, who grew up in Kazakhstan and speaks Hebrew and Russian, said: "I know first-hand the benefits this offers, both in education and in later life.

"However, historically, children and young people who didn’t speak English as their first language have lacked tailored support and opportunities.

"Research shows us that children and young people who maintain proficiency in their home language are better able to acquire English language skills. Better English language skills are associated with better academic outcomes for all children and young people."

Pictured: Children and Education Minister Inna Gardiner knows first-hand the benefits of a multilingual education.

The policy supports children who don't speak English at home, as well as promoting Jèrriais.

Since it was put in place, the Government has set up an advisory team and multilingual learner leads in schools, as well as purchasing multilingual books for school libraries.

It has planned 'Multilingualism in Education' training to help schools understand the challenges faced by students, and the Government said "nearly all schools" will have participated by the end of the year.

Haute Vallée School has incorporated Portuguese into its curriculum and Plat Douet School has joined an international network of schools welcoming multilingual students, the Language Friendly School scheme.

Pictured: The language policy supports children who don't speak English at home, as well as promoting Jèrriais.

Languages Adviser Samantha Losh said: “All of us involved in the Language Policy for Jersey Education have been thrilled with the positive response from school colleagues and from children and young people.

“We have worked closely with school staff, colleagues in Children, Young People, Education and Skills (CYPES), charities and families to offer children and young people more support and opportunities.”