The aim of the Language and Learning Interview is to elicit information about the student's prior learning experiences, including their development of literacy in their home language or other languages and any previous learning of English. Teachers and school leaders can use this information as the basis for their initial determination of the student's starting pathway and level in the English as an Additional Language (EAL) curriculum.
The Language and Learning Interview offers schools the opportunity to further develop the relationship between the family and the school, and also exchange information in order to understand the EAL student's prior learning, the nature of their transition into formal English education, and the point they are at in developing their bilingual or multilingual competence as they begin formal schooling in Australian classrooms. Teachers can use the interview to elicit further details and explanation where appropriate, in order to develop a rich understanding of the student's prior learning experiences and their language and literacy skills. It is crucial that both the family and student understand the purpose of the interview in order to ensure a positive experience.
It is up to the school to select an appropriate time and place to conduct the interview. It is crucial that the interview does not place undue stress and burden on a family who has experienced trauma. Ideally, this interview would be conducted in the early stages of arrival at the school but the most appropriate time should be negotiated with the family.
EAL resource - Language and Learning interview
EAL resource - Language and Learning interview
For government and Catholic schools, further information and resources can be found on the EAL section of the
Department of Education and Training and Catholic Education Commission Victoria (CECV) websites.