The Ethnic and Language Minority Achievement (ELMA) team in Children's Service works in partnership with schools, SCC colleagues and other agencies to improve services to minority ethnic communities, promote inclusive practices and raise the achievement of minority ethnic children and young people, including those who have a first language other than English.

ELMA offers consultation, advice and training for teachers and other professionals to improve the quality of services for these children. ELMA staff also provide language assessments and advice to schools on issues such as working with parents from minority ethnic communities, with asylum seekers and refugees, and with children with English as an Additional Language (EAL) who also have Special Educational Needs. Direct teaching support is offered to targeted schools to enhance bilingual learners’ English language acquisition and access to the curriculum.

Further information on this topic can be found by clicking on the link to the Surrey County Council web site below.