Local Labour Assembly Member JOYCE WATSON AM and Labour MP for Llanelli NIA GRIFFITH have welcomed figures published which show that almost all schoolchildren in Carmarthenshire continue to benefit from class sizes under 30.
Just two infant classes out of 272 in Carmarthenshire had more than 30 pupils, while six out of 346 junior classes had more than 30 pupils, at September 2007.
The percentage of junior classes in Wales with over 30 pupils stands at only 3% of the total, compared with 25% in 1999. Only 1% of infant classes in Wales contain more than 30 pupils.
NIA GRIFFITH MP said:
“We have excellent schools here in Carmarthenshire, and I am delighted that schools and Carmarthenshire Council have continued to work to keep class sizes down. Now virtually all infant and junior classes in Carmarthenshire have 30 pupils or under. Thanks to Welsh Labour's investment in our schools smaller classes are here to stay.
“This class size benefits our youngest children by giving them more teacher time and a better chance to improve their reading and number skills.
“I am proud to be part of a Labour Party which has invested solidly to give all our children the best start possible.”
JOYCE WATSON AM said:
"The new and innovative Foundation phase for early years education proves this Labour-led Assembly Government is committed to giving the very youngest children the best possible start.
"The roll out of the new Foundation phase across Carmarthenshire schools from next year will offer a radical new learning experience for 3 - 7 year olds. International evidence reveals that children do better if they start formal education later on and that children are put off learning altogether if they are tested too early.
"It will move early years education away from a rigid desk and blackboard style of teaching and place an emphasis on learning through play.
"Active involvement and participation in learning improves children's speaking and listening skills. Improving the personal and social skills of young children will encourage a more positive attitude towards learning throughout the rest of their school days and beyond.”
