The INTO is advocating for a two-point reduction of average class sizes in all primary schools in the forthcoming budget.
Currently, Ireland stands out in the European Union for having the largest class sizes, with an average of 22.81 pupils per class, compared to the EU average of just 20.2. A reduction of two would align our class sizes closely with those of our European neighbours and would be especially timely as projections suggest a decrease in primary school enrolments from 556,000 in 2023 to 542,000 by 2025. By retaining the current number of class teachers, government can achieve this class size reduction at minimal additional cost to the exchequer.
Having class sizes of 20 would enable teachers to meet the broad spectrum of needs that children are presenting with. Smaller class sizes mean more personalised attention for each student, more effective use of modern teaching methods and crucial support for children with additional needs and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
It is imperative for the government to prioritise equal educational opportunities for Ireland’s primary school children, giving them the best start in the education system, ensuring they can benefit fully from the new curriculum and providing them with the same advantages as their European peers in classes of 20 pupils. This is not just an educational necessity but a moral imperative. The current classroom overcrowding continues to disadvantage our youngest citizens. This government has one last opportunity to bring Ireland into line with Europe. They must seize that opportunity.