English as an Additional Language (EAL) Examinations

The EAL department enables international pupils to take advantage of the academic and social opportunities at Rendcomb College by helping them to overcome the barrier of working in a second language and integrating the pupil as fully as possible, and as soon as possible into mainstream school.

All international pupils take EAL during their time at Rendcomb College. On arrival, students sit the online Oxford Placement Test. This score, combined with material from their application, allows our department to recommend a weekly number of EAL lessons. The pupil’s year group and length of stay also factor into these calculations.

Pupils who stay for at least one year are given the opportunity to achieve at least one internationally recognised EAL exam; either PET, FCE, IGCSE or IELTS (which is required as part of their university entry requirements).

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

This examination is taken in the Sixth Form and the pupils are taught by a team of experienced, specialist, IELTS teachers in a dedicated, vibrant department in the main building of the school. All pupils focus on the four components of Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening within a topic and skills-based programme. IELTS is a mandatory requirement when applying to an English-Speaking University. Three strong A-Level results with a good IELTS score is a typical entry requirement for a place at a UK University.

IGCSE ESL (English as a Second Language)

This examination is usually taken at the end of Year 11 alongside all other (I) GCSEs and is selected as one of the (I) GCSE options at the beginning of Year 10. The writing component of this examination focuses on summaries, reports, letters and articles, which compliments and supports the IGCSE as a First Language.

FCE (First Certificate in English – British Council B1-C1 level)

Preparation for the FCE is undertaken in Year 10, and pupils can be entered for the external examination at the end of the year. This Cambridge examination is the most widely taken in the world and is rigorous in testing both grammar and writing skills in particular. This demanding course provides a firm foundation for those about to embark on the IGCSE ESL the following year.

PET (Preliminary Test in English – British Council A2-B2 level)

This Cambridge examination is designed as a foundation level of English and is a good pathway before the start of the (I) GCSE courses supporting well the Key stage 3 curriculum. Preparation for the PET is undertaken in Years 7-9, and pupils can be entered for the external examination at the end of each year.

Above all, we aim to ensure that EAL students’ experience of education in Britain is stimulating and enjoyable, providing a language skill of life-long value.

Each term all International Sixth Form pupils have the opportunity to take the IELTS exam in order to improve their scores and, meet their university requirements.