iNews’s Lucy Alpin reported that, “More than 100,000 British people across the UK have offered to host Ukrainian refugees in the Homes for Ukraine scheme.”
She added, “Talking to Sky News, Michael Gove said that the UK should expect “tens of thousands” of Ukrainian refugees in the coming months.”
But there’s just one small catch…
“English proficiency among most Ukrainians is still very low. So, I would say that not many Ukrainians speak English”, Kiev Tour Guide Alexandra explained.
Most Ukrainians are bi-lingual, speaking Ukrainian as their first language, and also Russian, which is Ukraine’s second language.
As a result, English as a foreign language lessons are a key catalyst for helping the imminent influx of Ukrainian refugees. These people have already been through so much. The importance of making their integration as accelerated and painless as possible is paramount. This entails equipping them with the essential tool of language and the ability to communicate.
How Can English as a Foreign Language Lessons Reach Beyond the Classroom?
Tracey Smith is the principal of Brookwood Elementary in Forsyth County, Georgia, where 10% of students need English as a foreign language lessons.
She talked Language Magazine through some of the ways her team go the extra mile, over and above the English as a foreign language lessons held in classrooms. She believes a more holistic approach is vital for making transformational connections with students who can often feel like they’re aliens from another planet.
“Before we meet a new student from abroad, we make a point to learn a little bit about their culture. How do they greet each other?” Tracey said. “We’re working to provide all of our families with what they need from us, without making them feel like we’re intruding on their privacy.”
At La Academia, we have a proven track record in providing compelling and effective English as a foreign language lessons. Reching out and using communication to break down barriers and build connections is at the heart of everything we do, in the good and times and the bad.
Source
How many Ukrainian refugees will come to the UK? Homes for Ukraine scheme explained and how to apply, Lucy Aplin, iNews
Do Ukrainians Speak English? Kiev Tour Guide
Connecting the Community, Tracey Smith, Language Magazine