When it comes to quality education, class size plays a pivotal role in shaping the learning experience. With an impressively low student-teacher ratio of 11:1, ISPH can consistently deliver educational excellence.
Personalised support for students
In a small class, every student receives individual attention from the teacher. This enables the teacher to identify and address any learning difficulties as soon as they arise. Moreover, teachers have the time to truly know each student, understand their strengths and weaknesses, and adapt their teaching methods accordingly. This fosters a motivating environment where personalised instruction empowers students to perform at their best.
Mr Paul Antcliffe – Head of Primary at ISPH – describes how smaller class sizes improves teaching: ‘In smaller classes, the teachers have the opportunity to truly get to know their students on a personal level. This deeper understanding allows teachers to identify the unique strengths, challenges and learning styles of each student. Armed with this knowledge, teachers can tailor their instruction, support and feedback to meet the specific needs of every learner. For example, in our E.A.L. classes, the teachers provide personalised approaches to each of the students based on their level of English proficiency, and therefore students can improve their English skills very quickly after just a few months studying at ISPH.’
Maximising learning time
In larger classes, managing student behaviour can be an additional challenge, even for the most experienced teachers. The time spent on managing behaviour can affect the time spent on actual instruction. However, in smaller classes, these issues are reduced, allowing teachers to dedicate more time to teaching and maximising learning opportunities.
Student perspectives
In smaller classes, students feel more comfortable expressing their thoughts and opinions. They are more inclined to: actively participate, ask questions and engage in discussions. This promotes a vibrant exchange of ideas, encourages critical thinking and cultivates a classroom culture that values diversity and individuality.
Quang Ngo, Year 11 student at ISPH, thinks small class sizes enable him to be more confident: ‘I feel more comfortable stepping forward and actively participating in classroom discussions. My voice is always heard and my confidence level has increased significantly since I joined ISPH. Now I believe more in myself and ready to take on more challenges’
Improved relationships in school
In a large class, students often prefer to interact with familiar peers. However, in a small class, students have the opportunity to develop meaningful connections with all their classmates. This fosters a sense of community, encourages collaboration and creates a supportive environment where students are more inclined to help and engage with one another.
Furthermore, small class sizes allow teachers to foster strong relationships with their students. In smaller classes, teachers have the opportunity to develop a deeper connection with each student, creating an environment of trust, respect and mutual understanding. This rapport enables teachers to better support their students’ emotional and social well-being, providing a safe space for students to express themselves and seek guidance. The close teacher-student relationships cultivated in small class sizes at ISPH not only enhance the learning experience but also contribute to the overall growth and development of students.
