EAL at Summercombe
“We celebrate the diversity, experiences, and aspirations that international students bring to our community. Through dedicated EAL support, we help every learner develop confidence in communication, build meaningful connections, and flourish both inside and beyond the classroom.”
The Summercombe Centre at LWC
The Summercombe Centre is a welcoming and inclusive space designed to help international students flourish. Here, every pupil is known as an individual, supported in their language-learning journey, and encouraged to share their unique cultural perspective.
Our dedicated team ensures students feel confident, connected and fully engaged in school life, creating a true sense of belonging within both our international and wider community.
Language Assessments
The Summercombe Centre addresses the needs of international students with English as an Additional Language (EAL) across all year groups.
Pupils are assessed to identify the support they require, and teaching staff have access to each student’s learning profiles and strategies.
The Admissions team conducts a language assessment using the Password platform. Password’s online diagnostics assess proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. By providing a reliable and standardised measure of current levels, the assessment enables the College to determine whether a pupil has the language competency required to access the curriculum and to identify the level of additional language support that may be needed.
Collaboration for Success
The Curriculum Support department based in the Summercombe Centre works seamlessly with the academic and pastoral teams to ensure the best outcomes for pupils at every stage of their journey.
There is a strong partnership between the pastoral team and the Curriculum Support team, supported through regular meetings with Houseparents, Heads of Year, and the Health Centre.
Learn more about the life in our Boarding Houses.
Support for Students
EAL students receive instruction in small groups or on a one-to-one basis and are prepared for qualifications such as iGCSE English as a Second Language in the 4th and 5th Forms, and IELTS in the 6th Form.
The courses are designed to develop reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, ensuring that pupils meet university entrance and visa requirements while complementing their standard English Language and Literature studies.
Significant emphasis is also placed on pastoral care, enabling international students to settle confidently and thrive in their new environment.
International Students
The College welcomes pupils from all over the world and really values the contribution they make to our community. Our stunning 1200-acre campus is less than an hour from Heathrow Airport and central London. Hook Station, a ten-minute drive away, has a direct rail connection to London Waterloo. We are 30 minutes away from the historic city of Winchester and just over an hour to Oxford and the New Forest.
Learn more about why international families choose LWC.
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What level of English does my child need before joining?
Students join us with a wide range of English language experience. Our EAL support is designed to help learners develop confidence and communication skills at every stage.
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How will my child be supported in lessons?
Our teachers adapt learning to ensure international students can access the curriculum while continuing to strengthen their academic English. Additional EAL support may also be provided where needed.
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Will my child receive extra English tuition?
Yes. Depending on individual needs, students may receive targeted EAL support to develop speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
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How long does it take for students to become confident in English?
Every child’s journey is different. Many students quickly gain confidence socially, while academic language develops steadily over time with consistent support and encouragement.
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How do you help international students settle into school life?
We place great importance on helping students feel welcomed, included, and part of the school community from their very first day. Staff and peers work closely to support friendships, routines, and confidence. Relationships with Houseparents is also key to supporting students, and our team are highly experiences in this.
What level of English does my child need before joining?
How will my child be supported in lessons?
Our teachers adapt learning to ensure international students can access the curriculum while continuing to strengthen their academic English. Additional EAL support may also be provided where needed.
Will my child receive extra English tuition?
Yes. Depending on individual needs, students may receive targeted EAL support to develop speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
How long does it take for students to become confident in English?
Every child’s journey is different. Many students quickly gain confidence socially, while academic language develops steadily over time with consistent support and encouragement.