The latest National School Annual Census released by the Department of Education reveals that the largest average class sizes in the country are in Kildare. Commenting on the figures, Maynooth Councillor Angela Feeney said, ‘’ With an average of 24 pupils per class, Kildare schools still struggle with class sizes. The problem appears to be worse in Gaelscoileanna in North Kildare.’’
“While the overall national trend shows improvement with 10,000 fewer students in overcrowded schools, Kildare is still adversely affected by the issue. It is very disappointing that the largest average class size in the country was among schools in Kildare . Fewer than one in 10 pupils in schools in Kildare find themselves in classes of 20 or under.
The Department of Education said pupil demographics are a key driver for teacher demand. Cllr. Feeney said she finds this comment by the Department very ironic. “If pupil demographics are a key driver for teacher demand, then why are we in Kildare in this position? We have the fastest growing populations in our towns and yet here we are again in this situation where we are being poorly served and not keeping pace with population growth. Why are Kildare school children not being fairly treated? We are so lucky to have great schools and teachers but I will do all I can to support these schools. I have contacted them to see what can be done to address this imbalance”.
As someone who has worked in education all her life, Cllr. Feeney said she understands the importance of individual student attention and as an active supporter of the Irish language she feels particularly strongly that pupils attending Gaelscoileanna are even more likely to find themselves in large classes.
Addressing this point, Councillor Feeney says, “We know that Gaelscoileanna in Sallins and Celbridge have the highest average class size at 27.5 students and the largest individual class size at 33.’’
To highlight the negative impact of large class sizes on students’ education and well-being and seek solutions, Councillor Feeney proposes immediate steps to address the issue.
‘’I have contacted school principals in Maynooth, Celbridge, Rathcoffey and Kilcock to offer my support. I’ve also contacted the Department of Education to voice my concerns,’’ she adds.
Despite the growing popularity of Irish language education, many schools struggle to cope with the influx of students, resulting in overcrowded classrooms and compromised learning environments.
To highlight the negative impact of large class sizes on students’ education and well-being and seek solutions, Councillor Feeney proposes taking immediate steps to address the issue.
They include calling for increased funding to recruit additional teachers and new classrooms. Councillor Feeney also wants measures to reduce class sizes and ensure schools have adequate resources to meet growing demand.
‘’I’m committed to advocating for the rights and needs of schools and students. That’s why I will continue to work with local communities and policymakers to find solutions to this pressing issue,” she concludes.