EDR09 - Financial Savings 2021-22 - Targeted class sizes support (Primary 1)
| Title | EDR09 - Financial Savings 2021-22 - Targeted class sizes support (Primary 1) |
|---|---|
| Council Resource | Education |
| Aims and Objectives | The maximum class size for Primary 1 children in Scotland is 25 pupils. Through the standardisation of primary 1 class sizes across the authority, a saving of £0.516m can be realised in 2021/2022. Based on expected configurations, all Primary 1 class sizes will move to 25 pupils, taking this to the appropriate statutory level. Consequently, 15 schools will see the class size reduction teacher removed. Targeted class size reduction support to primary 1 children will be made available where required, utilising funding available through the Pupil Equity Fund and Scottish Attainment Challenge funding. The 15 schools identified are based on current configurations. 11 schools would reduce down a class and 4 schools would remove the second class teacher, with a total of 15 class size reduction teachers removed. All children will continue to have access to additional hours in ELC settings. The saving will be part year effective from August 2021. The annual saving equates to £0.825m. A further saving of £0.309m is therefore achievable in 2022/2023. |
| Conclusion | The conclusion of this impact assessment is that there is the potential for negative impact on some children, particularly those attending schools in areas of high socio-economic deprivation or those with additional support needs. However, any pupils with needs affected by this proposal will continue to receive support to meet their individual needs but the enhanced support via class size reduction will no longer be available. Schools will continue to target provision towards the most vulnerable. A number of nursery aged children are already receiving increased hours beyond the current 600 hours of statutory provision. In addition as of August 2020 all nursery children will receive 1140 hours of provision per annum, which will enhance early learning and development and subsequently provide a smoother transition into their education at Primary 1 stage and beyond. Any staffing implications will be considered in a separate Equality Impact Assessment. |
| Completion date | 24/2/21 |
| Contact Email address | equalities@southlanarkshire.gov.uk |