Small Class Sizes
Keeping class sizes small to provide a more personal learning environment for our tamariki.
Small class sizes enable our teachers to provide more individual instruction using a strength-based, differentiated education approach to better meet the needs of children with a range of abilities.
Small Classes, Big Futures
Matahui School aims to keep our class sizes small (no more than 17 students) to provide the best possible education for our students.
By maintaining small class sizes, our Kaiako (teachers) are able to provide more individualised attention, supporting the diverse needs of all tamariki, including high-achievers, neurotypical and neurodiverse learners, and those requiring learning support.
The Benefits of Smaller Classes
Research shows that smaller class sizes lead to better learning outcomes for students, especially in the early primary school years.
Higher Academic Achievement
Children in smaller classes (in particular, primary aged-children and minority students) have been shown to have higher test scores in Math and Literacy.
Engagement in Classroom Activities
Research shows that children exhibit greater participation and engagement in school activities within a small class environment, and are more likely to stay on task and participate in class discussions.
Values-driven Behaviour
Children in small class environments tend to show more pro-social behaviour, as they receive greater individual attention and encouragement to participate. Our values-led educational philosophy also serves to reinforce positive behaviour.
More One-to-One Teacher Time
The biggest benefit of a small class environment is the increased one-to-one time with the Kaiako (teachers). This allows Kaiako more opportunity to observe, support, guide, and interact with each student. When students receive more focus and attention, they are more actively engaged.
Enhanced Learning
With fewer students, teachers can move through core instructions more efficiently, leaving more time for deeper exploration and hands-on learning.
Diverse Learners
Smaller class sizes give Kaiako (teachers) the ability to adapt their teaching methods to engage tamariki (children) in a way that works best for them. Teachers can get to know their students and any underlying neurological, social, sensory, or emotional differences that may affect how they process information, and are therefore better equipped to support them.
Lasting Effects
Research shows that the positive effects of small class sizes on academic achievement have a lasting effect and persist over time, even for students who move to schools with larger class sizes. Small class sizes provide the best conditions for effective teaching and learning. If you’re curious and want to learn more about the research behind smaller class sizes, visit our blog.
Matahui School has been providing a small class education since its inception in 1989, and the results speak for themselves!
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