A school-based approach to developing the English proficiency of EAL university students

Made available with permission of the publisher.This paper provides a case study of a school-based approach to language de-velopment and support for English as an additional language (EAL) students within the School of Nursing & Midwifery at Flinders University. The case study addresses the need for greater knowledge about different organisa-tional approaches to EAL support within tertiary education. While there are numerous university-wide and faculty-based programs and support for EAL students, school-based approaches are much less common. The paper out-lines the context from which the decision to employ an English for specific purposes (ESP) academic within the school emerged. The initial response and modifications made as a greater understanding of student and staff needs and preferences developed are outlined. Along with the role and activities of the ESP academic, challenges are also discussed