Ethnic Minority Achievement Service (EMAS)

The Ethnic Minority Achievement Services (EMAS) is a UK government funded initiative (DCSF) and forms part of the key delivery mechanism for ensuring that English as a 2nd Language (E2L), English as an Additional Language (EAL) and community language speakers are challenged to achieve their potential. With over 36,000 pupils who speak no or little English and with over 500,000 children whose first language is not English there is a large degree of support required. There are at least 10 schools in the UK that no pupil speaks English as a first language: these range from Rochdale to Hillingdon and schools with as many as 450 pupils

The EMAS banner has been held by individuals and small groups of committed teachers who have worked to support learners in the classroom. This has been patchy at best with some local authorities having departments that offer exceptional direction and resources and some that lacked the basic tools to support learners.

The role of the EMAS specialist is vital in a multi ethnic society with English language communication being the delivery method of learning. Each learner has the opportunity to achieve their potential if they access the opportunities that are offered to them. More importantly; communication brings understanding, with understanding comes reason and with reason come compassion.

The DCFS has given over £50 million pound to supporting EMAS throughout the UK in the last year and have committed many more millions over the next 3 years, ensuring continuity of care and support for schools. The new funding will allow the LA to keep 15% up to £150,000 for LA staff and resources with the remaining money being devolved to schools by a by pupil formula.

Useful Links

emasuk (Association for EMAS Professionals 1