'Surge in pupil numbers gives birth to new generation of giant schools
The number of “super primaries” across England is set to explode as local authorities struggle to deal with the sudden jump in pupil numbers, The TES can reveal...'
Mail Online also highlights the worries about large classes and reduced teacher time per pupil...'The average state primary class size for OECD countries in 2006 was 21.5, compared to 25.8 here.
British primary school classes have a fifth more pupils compared to other developed countries, an international study shows.
Only Japan, Korea and Turkey have more five to 11-year-olds in the same lesson.
There are almost 26 pupils to the average class in state primaries here - despite widespread concerns over disruption and youngsters receiving less attention.
I left a comment with TES as follows:
We are a small primary school near Boston with room for more pupils. We have been informed that in spite of funding cuts the LCC are proposing to extend the buildings of primary schools in Boston. I would be most interested to hear views about organising cohorts to be transported to our small rural school.
In these times of strained purses surely it is wise to utilise some of the excellent education opportunities in close surrounding areas.
If children stay with their local friends and travel together doesnt it make sense to offer good education in an established primary school without spending enormous usms on building projects. Can't we be innovative about this? Can't we encourage the best use of exisiting facilities, allow urban children to enjoy the smaller classes, spacious outdoor opportunities and more teacher time? What do others think?
