Bromsgrove School has an active International Students Department with seven full-time teachers who provide pastoral and academic support for international students in the Preparatory and Senior Schools. All students who speak English as an Additional Language (EAL) receive specialist lessons, which focus on the development of the English language skills of speaking, reading, writing and listening. Students' capabilities are assessed on entry to the school and at regular intervals throughout their school careers. They are taught by experienced teachers in small groups that are designed to maximise their progress, support their studies in other areas of the curriculum and prepare them for internationally recognised examinations of English as an Additional Language. These examinations are especially important for international students intending to study at universities in the United Kingdom or America as they form part of the essential entry requirements. At the end of the Fifth Form (Year 11) pupils take the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) examination in English as a Second Language. Sixth Form pupils (Years 12 and 13) study for IELTS, the pre-university test of English and some very fluent pupils take the Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE). This comprehensive approach to the teaching of English within the school ensures that pupils have the best opportunity to improve their command of English and gain the qualifications necessary to enter universities in the United Kingdom or elsewhere. Further information about English as an Additional Language support and courses can be obtained from the Head of International Education, cbentham@bromsgrove-school.co.uk