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The difference in class sizes across Guernsey's States run schools has been confirmed after Education was forced to answer questions about staffing at the Les Varendes site in particular.
Deputy Lindsay De Sausmarez lodged a number of 'Rule 14' questions late last month - meaning ESC had to reply in writing within 14 days.
Her questions centred around the differences in class sizes across the island, the transition in education, and staffing numbers. Many of the questions related specifically to Les Varendes and the intended staffing model once the school is split out next year with the Sixth Form Centre moving to La Mare de Carteret where it will operate independently.
The proposed reforms to Guernsey's education system have generated mixed reactions from parents, teachers, and students. While some welcome the changes as a necessary step to improve educational outcomes, others have expressed concerns about potential disruptions and challenges.
Deputy de Sausmarez's questions have touched on some of the issues previously raised.
Concerns had been raised about varying class sizes across Guernsey's schools.
While some schools, particularly smaller ones like St. Anne's (Primary) and La Houguette, have relatively smaller class sizes, others, such as St. Martin's Primary and Les Beaucamps High, have larger average class sizes.
The average numbers see little change in primary education, with La Mare de Carteret Primary seeing the largest change over the past three years, with class sizes decreasing by 2.4 students.
All schools saw a slight decrease in sizes over that period, besides Vauvert, which has increased by 0.9 students for the average class size, up to 24.4.
Educational experts suggest that smaller class sizes can lead to improved student outcomes, as teachers can provide more individualized attention. However, factors like school size, subject popularity, and resource allocation can influence class size, making it a complex issue.
The Committee for Education, Sport & Culture say they are aware of these concerns and are working to address them as part of the ongoing review of the education system.
Pictured: St.Sampsons (Top), Beaucamps (Middle), Les Varendes (Bottom). The next annual report for the Student numbers, class sizes and teacher numbers is due in January.
One key aspect of the transition is the deployment of teachers across multiple schools.
Deputy de Sausmarez posed questions around the staffing at Les Varendes High School and the Sixth Form Centre, and how that might be affected when the two sites are run independently of each other from next September.
To ensure continuity of education during the transitional period, ESC said some teachers will be required to teach at different schools. While this may present challenges, the States say they aim to minimize disruption to students' learning.
The answers highlight how the number of teachers who are 'Sixth Form Only', and in full time employment (FTE) sits at 12.2, whilst 'Secondary Only' sits at 27.44 and those who work for both, sits at 32.6. The amount of teachers taking part in the 'Cross-School' section is 0.9.
As the transition progresses, ESC says the focus will be on establishing a new operating model that reduces the need for cross-site teaching and optimises resource allocation.
ESC has also emphasised the importance of a smooth transition and has assured the community that the reforms are designed to benefit students in the long term.
If you’d like to read the Rule 14 Questions and their response in full, you can do so on the States website HERE.
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