More and more pupils whose first language is not Dutch are progressing from International Transition Classes (ISK) and primary education to secondary education. Over the coming years, the number of pupils for whom Dutch is not their mother tongue will only continue to grow. This presents secondary school teachers with a variety of challenges: How can you adapt the language you use to suit your pupils? How can you anticipate difficulties with the course material? And how should you deal with mistakes in your pupils’ homework assignments?
Why should you teach with NT2 in mind?
The successful integration of these NT2 learners depends entirely on how actively they develop their command of the Dutch language. When these pupils enter secondary school, their proficiency in Dutch is still very much a work in progress. The faster they improve their Dutch, the better they will be able to grasp the subject matter. In addition, these pupils already have skills in other languages that they can draw on. It is vital that teachers supporting these pupils possess strong teaching skills.
What will you learn on this programme?
The Being mindful of Dutch as a Second Language (NT2) in Secondary Education professional development course provides language and subject teachers, as well as support staff, with essential knowledge about NT2 learners as well as practical strategies that can be put into practice in the classroom straightaway. This is how you will encourage language acquisition in your subject and help your pupils develop their language skills in a smooth and seamless manner.
In addition, the programme offers the opportunity to learn from colleagues by sharing best practice in teaching and supporting pupils who are not native speakers.
Target group
This programme is intended for: language and subject teachers, mentors and welfare coordinators working in secondary education.