[Greens-Media] MARK PARNELL MLC: Keep class sizes low - Greens

[Parnell]

Media Release
Monday 17th August 2009

Keep class sizes low: Greens


The Greens have backed the call of the Australian Education Union for the current average class sizes in SA public schools to be the new 'maximum' to ensure class sizes don't rise next year.

The AEU has reacted with concern to documents submitted by the Rann Government to the Industrial Relations Commission as part of the long running dispute over teacher's pay and conditions that show the Government would be able to increase Reception class sizes from 19 to 26 students and from 25 to 30 students in years 3 to 7.

"Keeping class sizes as low as possible is absolutely critical to how a student performs," said Greens MLC Mark Parnell.

"The Greens strongly believe the current average class size should be treated as the new maximum to ensure there is no chance that class sizes will increase from next year.

"As any parent knows, the more one-on-one time their child has with their teacher, the better the learning experience.

"The relationship that forms between a teacher and a student is vital to success.  The more students a teacher has to manage, the harder it is to give individual attention and targeted teaching," he said.

Greens MLC Mark Parnell has once again backed the Australian Education Union in their long running dispute with the State Government.

"This is just another example of why all parents of public school students should be supporting the AEU campaign.

"Fighting to keep class sizes as small as possible not only improves working conditions for teachers, but delivers better outcomes for all South Australian public school students," he said.


For further comment contact Craig Wilkins on 0434 007 893




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