When pupils arrive at school with little or no English, every moment of learning matters. But with busy timetables, limited EAL resources and a wide range of learner needs, it can be difficult to provide the tailored support each pupil requires.
That is where the FlashAcademy® learning app comes in. Designed to help pupils develop English skills independently, it supports a wide range of language backgrounds, offers content at different levels and keeps learners motivated through short, structured activities.
Here is how the app works and why schools across the UK are using it to support pupils with English as an additional language requirements.
Everyday learning made accessible and engaging
At the heart of the FlashAcademy® app is our library of interactive lessons. These cover general vocabulary, survival English, phonics, handwriting and high-frequency words, helping pupils build the practical skills they need for everyday communication.
Lessons introduce new vocabulary through audio, animation and real-life context. Pupils can complete a series of short challenges to help them practise, with instant feedback to show how they are doing.
FlashAcademy®’s lessons can be repeated as many times as needed, and learners can choose to view flashcards or play games to reinforce vocabulary. This makes it easy to revise and build confidence over time.
The option to switch between English and their home language helps learners feel more comfortable and confident, especially in the early stages. It can reduce anxiety, support understanding and even allow families to engage in learning at home. Your EAL learners can easily switch back into English, which also helps teachers check understanding and ensure tasks are completed correctly.
Language support in 48 home languages
To help pupils feel included and make learning more accessible, FlashAcademy® supports 48 home languages. Pupils can toggle between English and their home language at any time, making it easier to understand new content and make faster progress.
This also reduces the need for translation support in the classroom and helps learners take more ownership of their learning from day one.
Curriculum-linked content for classroom readiness
As learners progress, the app introduces more academic content aligned to the curriculum. This includes subject-specific vocabulary, grammar, punctuation, spelling, idioms and reading comprehension lessons.
Vocabulary is organised using our vocab pyramid, moving from high-frequency everyday words (tier 1) to more ambitious academic and subject-specific vocabulary (tiers 2 and 3). This helps ensure learners are prepared for mainstream lessons and national assessments.
Built-in handwriting and phonics tools
The app includes handwriting lessons to help pupils practise letters, numbers and early words. With on-screen tracing, instant feedback and letter formation videos, it supports early writing development in a structured and engaging way.
Phonics lessons are also included, these cover digraphs, diphthongs and consonant clusters to improve spelling and pronunciation.
Encouraging independent learning beyond the classroom
The FlashAcademy® app includes tools designed to make learning more independent and flexible. The object translator allows pupils to scan everyday items using their device’s camera and receive instant translations and pronunciation help in English and their home language.
This feature helps learners build vocabulary beyond the classroom and encourages them to use English in their day-to-day lives.
Gamified features to keep learners motivated
To keep engagement high, FlashAcademy® includes games, progress streaks and XP rewards. The more lessons pupils complete, the more games they unlock. Progress is tracked through their profile and visible in the teacher dashboard, helping staff monitor learning without additional admin.
Why are schools choosing FlashAcademy®?
- Inclusive: 48 home languages help include and engage every pupil
- Time saving: Digital and easy to use, freeing up staff time
- Engaging: Short, structured lessons with audio, animation and games
- Pedagogical: Curriculum-aligned content and a clear progression pathway
- Informative: Real-time insights through the teacher dashboard
See the app in action
If you would like to find out how FlashAcademy® could support your school’s EAL provision, book a free online demo with our team. We will walk you through the app and show how it can help meet your pupils’ needs.