What is the role of the Ethnic Minority, Traveller and Refugee Pupil Achievement Service (EMTRAS)
The role of Emtras is to work with school, teachers and other agencies to secure the highest possible standards of achievement for pupils whose home language may not be English and who may need additional support to settle in school and access the curriculum
The aim of the service is to work in partnership with schools and parents to raise the achievement of minority ethnic pupils by:
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offering specialist teaching
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offering support from bilingual assistants
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supporting schools to narrow attainment gaps of underachieving, disadvantaged and vulnerable EAL / BME children through focused action.
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enabling pupils with English as an additional language to achieve their full potential
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accelerating the acquisition of English language and literacy skills
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providing access to the National Curriculum / appropriate curriculum in Secondary
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raising the status and self esteem of pupils with English as an additional language
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encouraging the use and development of pupils' home languages
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encouraging parents of pupils with English as an additional language to become involved in their children's learning, raise aspirations and promote the importance of good attendance
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promoting an anti - racist ethos in schools
What is the English as an Additional Language (EAL) Central Team?
The Central team of three consultants works across all schools in Newcastle to advise and support on issues, concerns, performance, and underachievement of EAL / BME pupils. Schools can refer directly to the service at any time.
What support is available
The central team offers a range of services to schools:
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CPD on EAL / BME issues
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Advice on narrowing the gaps for vulnerable ethnic groups
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Advice on welcoming new international arrivals and help in planning for their access to the curriculum
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Assessment of EAL pupils causing concern
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Advice on promotion of community cohesion
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Advice on EAL strategies / resources
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EAL co-ordinator meetings
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Drop-in sessions
This list is not exhaustive and the service can be contacted for further advice or support
Who will I contact for further information?
Ethnic Minority, Traveller and Refugee Pupil Achievement Service,
Children's Services Directorate,
Trinity Oakfield
Condercum Road
Newcastle Upon Tyne
NE4 8XJ
Una Mee
Senior EAL and EMA Consultant
Email:una.mee@newcastle.gov.uk
Phone: 0191 211 5369
