What is NACELL?

The National Advisory Centre on Early Language Learning (NACELL) was established in 1999 as a Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) Initiative to promote and develop the provision and quality of early language learning in primary and early years education.

The Initiative is co-ordinated by CILT, the National Centre for Languages and comprises the NACELL website, information service, resources collection and Regional Support Groups across England.

As a national gateway to advice, information and support on early language learning and teaching, NACELL serves to meet the needs of teachers, schools, Local Authorities and others involved or interested in languages education for young learners. It aims to:

• provide information and advice on early language learning
• develop and disseminate curriculum models and best practice guidelines
• involve practitioners in face-to-face and online networking
• offer support and coherence for existing initiatives at regional and national levels

NACELL works with key partners in the education sector, including the DCSF, Training and Development Agency for Schools (TDA), British Council, British Educational Communications and Technology Agency (BECTA), Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA), as well as schools, Local Authorities and Initial Teacher Training institutions.

Why start early?

• An early start develops generic language-learning skills and provides a strong foundation for further learning.
• It introduces children to the sounds and structures of a new language at an age when they are receptive to this and stimulates their curiosity and imitative abilities.
• It develops knowledge of other countries and promotes positive attitudes towards other cultures and speakers of other languages.
• Learning other languages supports general language and literacy development and complements learning across the curriculum.
• The Government’s strategy for languages recognises that language learning has an important part to play in general education at primary level.
  
  
  

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