Young Interpreter Scheme

Resource type: Projects, programmes and workshops

Price band: £

Key stage: KS1, KS2, KS3, KS4

Region(s): All of UK

The Young Interpreter Scheme is an award-winning peer-buddying scheme that trains children and young people in KS1 – KS4 to welcome and support EAL pupils in their new school environment.

Young Interpreters can be bilingual or speakers of English only. Through the training they learn different strategies to clarify, explain and ‘interpret’ a range of school activities and procedures in order to help new arrivals access English and feel part of the school.

Young Interpreters are trained and guided in their role by a designated member of staff using resources and guidance available to subscribing schools on Moodle. Lesson plans describe how to deliver this training to infants, juniors or secondary pupils.

Young Interpreter co-ordinators can also access training that provides advice on what to consider when inviting pupils to become Young Interpreters, as well as guidance on how to support them and keep them motivated about their role. Co-ordinators will also consider safeguarding principles and explore the boundaries of the role of Young Interpreter.

Cost: £70 per school registration, including unlimited access to the Primary or Secondary Moodle and cross-phase bonus materials.

About Hampshire EMTAS: Hampshire EMTAS is the Ethnic Minority and Traveller Achievement Service at Hampshire County Council. They provide training and support for Hampshire schools to improve educational outcomes for children and young people from Black, Minority Ethnic and Traveller heritages, including those learning English as an additional language.

Literacy Hive Likes:

The Young Interpreter Scheme can be used in settings where there are a number of pupils who share the same language, as well as schools with isolated EAL learners.
Research has shown that Young Interpreters show an increase in their confidence, and improved communication and leadership skills.
The Young Interpreter Scheme is a great way to develop an inclusive whole-school culture.
The Young Interpreter Scheme is the 2018 winner of the Chartered Institute of Linguists’ Threlford Memorial Cup, as well as the overall and grassroots excellence winner of the Guardian Awards 2013.