Smaller class sizes improve student achievement

Smaller class sizes have a significant impact on boosting student achievement, according to new Australian research.

The study examined more than 100 previous research papers from 1979 onwards, on Australian, Canadian, English, New Zealand and European education systems.

Lead researcher David Zyngier concluded smaller class sizes in the first four years of school led to better student engagement, and less disruptive behaviour. This was especially true for students from low-income and minority communities.

At a minimum, student numbers should not exceed 15 for literacy and numeracy classes, according to the study.

While the study acknowledges reducing class sizes may be more costly in the short-term, the investment is necessary to close the gap between the poorest and best performing students.

The study also recommends more teacher training on dealing with smaller classes.