The average class size in state schools in the UK, according to 2023 Government figures, is 26.7 from infants (Reception through to Year 2), increasing to 27.7 for Years 3 to Year 6 (key stage 2), and 22.4 at Secondary (Senior) school.
Key stage 2 also now has more students in large classes (over 30 students). This is against a backdrop of claims of chronic underfunding that could see class sizes dramatically increased if not resolved, according to a recent media article from the Guardian. Smaller classes are widely acknowledged as one of the advantages independent schools offer. The International Journal of Educational Research reviewed three decades of research into the benefits of small classes in early years. It identified ‘…students’ improved behaviour, engagement in learning, sense of belonging, improved morale, and closer relationships with students’ among the benefits.
In this article we look at 8 benefits to having smaller class sizes for education and development is schools.
1. Individualised Attention
In smaller classes, teachers can provide more personalised attention to each student, especially in the crucial early years of education. They can closely observe and assess student’s individual needs, strengths, and areas for improvement. Personalised attention means teachers can tailor their instruction to meet the specific learning styles and abilities of the individual.
2. Better Engagement with Learning
Fewer students in a class means teachers can create a more interactive and engaging learning environment. They can actively involve every student in discussions, activities, and hands-on experiences. This level of engagement, particularly in the Primary or Prep years, helps learners develop a love for learning and cultivates their curiosity.
3. Stronger Relationships
Small class sizes allow for stronger relationships between teachers and students. Teachers build a deeper understanding of each student’s personality, their interests, and learning preferences and are well-placed to support and encourage. This can contribute to student wellbeing and make the classroom a positive and nurturing learning environment.
4. Better Social Skills
In small classes, students develop social skills such as cooperation, empathy, communication, and teamwork. Closer bonds are built between friends and students learn to navigate social dynamics in a supportive setting.
5. Enhanced Focus & Participation
With fewer distractions, students in small classes can better focus and participate in classroom activities. They have more chances to contribute, ask questions, and share their ideas. Active participation builds confidence, self-expression, and critical thinking skills. When it comes to Sixth Form, small classes give each student a platform to contribute to the debate and the exchange and development of ideas and critical thinking, as is the case at Brighton Girls Sixth Form where A level classes average 5 students.
6. Personalised Teaching
Small classes enable teachers to identify areas where students may require additional support or extension work, and adjust their teaching accordingly. Each student receives the attention and guidance to reach their full potential.
7. Better class management
Small classes are generally easier for teachers to manage. There is less behavioural or disciplinary disruption and teachers can invest more time in interacting with each student. This ultimately creates a better classroom environment.
8. Increased confidence and achievement
The individual attention and support students receive can instil greater confidence. Students are encouraged to take risks, step outside their comfort zone or ask for help.The combination of greater confidence and personalised teaching helps students to achieve their full potential.
Schools who can offer smaller class sizes can facilitate a nurturing learning environment that benefits students’ academic, social, and emotional development. From Pre-prep (Infants) and Prep to Senior and Sixth Form, Brighton Girls offers the small class sizes to best support students at all stages.
Here at Brighton Girls School we are an all-through independent school for girls aged 4 to 18 located in Brighton, East Sussex. To read and learn more about our school, see more posts and news on our blog.
