English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D)

Students for whom English is an additional language or dialect come from diverse backgrounds representing a significant and growing percentage of learners in NSW schools. They may be overseas-born or Australian-born students, whose first language or dialect is a language other than English. EAL/D students may include:

  • Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students whose first language is an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander language, including Kriols/creoles and related varieties, or Aboriginal English.
  • immigrants to Australia and temporary visa holders from countries where English is not the first language.
  • students of refugee backgrounds.
  • children born in Australia of migrant heritage where English is not spoken at home.
  • English-speaking students returning to Australia after extended periods in non-English speaking settings.
  • children of Deaf adults who use Auslan as their first language.
  • international students from countries where English is not the first language.
  • EAL/D students may also include students who are gifted and/or have a disability.

Relevant External Resources:

AISNSW EAL/D Teachers’ Network

The AISNSW EAL/D Teachers’ Network is a group of colleagues working in the independent sector to support students with English as an additional language or dialect. By joining the network, you have access to an online hub that is a a trusted space for teachers of EAL/D students to connect, share ideas, ask questions, access resources and participate in professional learning. A Network meeting is held online once a term and the agenda is determined by the group.

EAL/D Teachers’ Network Meetings 2025

The dates for the EAL/D Teachers’ Network Meetings this year are as follows:

  • Term 1 – Thursday 13 February 3:30pm-4:30pm
  • Term 2 – Monday 5 May 3:30pm-4:30pm
  • Term 3 – Thursday 31 July 3:30pm-4:30pm
  • Term 4 – Monday 27 October 3:30pm-4:30pm

If you are not yet a member of the Network and you would like to join, please contact Teaching and Learning Consultant Renae Watkins for access details to the Network Hub.

Current Network members can access the links to join the termly Network Meetings through the Network hub.

Professional Learning Opportunities

AISNSW offers a variety of options to assist your school to support students who speak English as an additional language or dialect. Below are some of the learning opportunities available this year:

Term 2

Available all year

  • AISNSW EAL/D Teachers’ Network Online Resource Hub.

Email Renae Watkins if you would like to be added to the Network distribution list and for the link to access the Resource Hub.

  • We come to you!

Feel free to have a chat about tailored in-school professional learning or consultancy to meet your school’s specific needs. For all enquiries, please contact Renae Watkins.