Evaluation of the Key Stage 2 Language Learning Pathfinders

2.2.3. Use of Foreign Language Assistants in Languages DeliveryForeign Language Assistants usually have no teacher training but may do. The short termtrainees are being teacher trained but still have different expectations and prior experienceAdvantages• Represent a good role model in termsof pronunciation, accuracy andfluency• Able to convey the wider culturalelements and authenticity to thelanguage• Add variety to input for pupils• Pupils generally respond well to a‘real’ speaker of the language• Can contribute to the promotion ofpositive attitudes and the breakingdown of stereotypes• May help establish ‘foreign’ links (e.g.e-mail exchange between pupils)Disadvantages• May have outsider status• Lack of understanding of the primarycurriculum in the UK• Lack of knowledge of pedagogy• Less able to differentiate• Lack of knowledge of classroommanagement issues• May be in UK for first time with limitedexperience of British culture• May require induction and substantial andongoing support and training• Need to be ‘managed’/supervised• Continuity and progression difficult toachieve if FLAs (Foreign LanguageAssistants) move on after a year• Transport issues• Punctuality issues• May be shared between schools, whichadds to logistical problems• Add cost to the school’s budgetAs well as different delivery models in terms of personnel, different models can also bediscerned in terms of the aims of the programmes employed in different Pathfinders.19