The number of infant school children being taught in classes of more than the recommended limit of 30 in England has risen by almost a third in a year. There are 10,576 children in classes of 31 or more this term, compared with 8,000 a year ago - a rise of more than 32 per cent. The average infant class size has also increased from 24.4 to 24.5. The DfES said the rise was because more classes, 288 compared with 150 a year ago, have 'reported circumstances which are permitted to exceed the limit on class sizes'. More than 99 per cent of infants are being taught in classes of 30 or fewer. The Department for Education and Skills said the September count of class sizes is now to end and from next year, infant class sizes will be monitored through information collected in the Annual Schools Census every January.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
