Class size increase AIBU?

[ClassSize2022]

I’ve name changed for this.

we are in a school that is three form entry. One of the year groups in Juniors is being increased to four form entry to accommodate children coming from Ukraine and Hong Kong.

our children were all set and ready (had met their new teacher as classes were being changed). I’m not a NIMBY but 4 classes a year seems so high! we’ve been told
it will mean smaller class sizes but we think that’s only initially as the classes will be split up.

however it’s only one year group not the others. It’s inevitable as it seems the school has been told to do it by the LA.

What's your actual concern?

Smaller classes are an absolute gift. I can't believe you're querying it. I teach a class of 20 and wouldn't move schools as I don't actually think you can educate 30+ children effectively.

What would you have them do? My kids school refused to increase number of classes in a large year group a couple of years ago and had 2 classes of 34 in KS3.
Surely actual child to teacher ratio is what’s key and 4 form will mean fairly small classes.

I teach at a massive secondary and it allows us so much flexibility.

So your concern is what? Your children have met a new teacher and that teacher will change?

But the Ukrainian children have lost their homes, possible their fathers, their teachers, friends and family!

But oh dear, your children have to change teacher?

So fucking what!

Have some empathy!

It isn't going to be a problem if they are increasing the number of classes.
And honestly given Ukrainian dc are fleeing a violent invasion it doesn't seem to big a stretch to ask your dc to meet a new teacher.

I don’t understand your problem, okay I can see it’s a bit annoying that they will now potentially have a new teacher, but they’re old enough to understand. Smaller class sizes are great, DDs reception ended up oversubscribed due to the LA so there’s 21 of them and it’s really good for them.
What would you propose they do? Refuse to educate the new children?

It’ll be smaller for a period of time then back up to 30.

nothing against the children from Ukraine or HK. I just think it’s a lot of pressure on the school/building. Accommodating them in a building that I don’t think can take it.

What is the actual problem you have with a 4 class year? Most parents would love smaller classes.

They'll have thought of that, there will be a classroom for each class don't worry they won't make a class sit outside.

So have you asked them specifically how the building will be adapted to accommodate an extra class? Assuming their is 30 children now, you still not really losing anything other than they have met a teacher that may change.

They will get funding for a new teacher

Nothing against them? Well that's really good of you!

So what's the issue with the change of teacher then? If it's all about space?

The LA will fund this.

It's not accommodating "them", it's accommodating everyone. And if the class sizes will be "back" up to 30 eventually then I don't see your point - surely enjoy the short term gain?

I live in a village closely joined to three others. Over 400 houses from three developers are currently being built within a 5 minute drive from me, all will place demands on local schools, roads and GPs. It's not ideal yet where these new families/kids come from is of no interest - could be Ukraine, could be Aberdeen, could be Plymouth. Your reaction to their origins marks you out as exactly a NIMBY.

Bulge classes are common, and seldom cause problems. I was at a 4 form primary, w more like 40/class (not UK) and it was fine! Amazing end of year drama productions.

Bulge years are a normal way of coping with higher numbers of pupils. Better than all the classes in the area increasing to 33 or 34...

I know of a 6 form entry Primary school. Now that is large...

I thought your thread was going to be about class sizes of 38!

The class size isn’t going above 30 so why are you complaining about ‘class sizes’? I don’t get the problem?!

That's not for you to worry about. I'm sure the school have considered all practical matters.....

As PP have said, try putting your worries into perspective and considering the backdrop against which the new children are joining the school.

Surely it's very unlikely that the funding will be there in future for 4 firms? Schools can't just increase their roll permanently.

In your shoes I'd be bloody grateful that my children who have not had to flee a war zone are benefiting from being in a class of 20. Not complaining about it.

4 form entry. Not firm.

im not sure how many extra children joining the year group. Let’s say 20? That’s 110 kids over 4 classes so probably more like 26-28 kids per class

YABU and yes absolutely a NIMBY!

They’re not increasing class size, they’re adding a new class.

presumably if you were fleeing war or oppression you would like your children to be able to attend a good, supportive school in the place you ended up?

Yes you're being U. U for unhinged!

Yes it is bloody marvellous that these children can continue their education!