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Policy on splitting classes
Introduction
This policy was the product of whole-
Rationale
In the interest of providing the best education for all students, it may from time to time be necessary to divide and combine class groups into mixed classes. This will allow classes that are smaller in size and offer a better pupil-
Aims and Objectives of this Policy
To provide a framework for the splitting of classes
To outline the criteria on which children are selected to be placed in mixed or straight classes
To outline the criteria for placing children in particular mixed-
To set out the supports which may be used to ensure the best learning outcomes for all children in mixed classes
To limit the enrolment of new children into split classes, subject to Section 29 of the Education Act.
Framework for the splitting of classes
At the time of planning the classes for the coming year, the Principal will look at the overall numbers in each year group and the number of teachers available to teach them. She will decide how best to organise classes with a view to providing the best educational opportunities for all children.
Criteria for placing children in particular class groups
We group the children in such a way so as to maximise the learning outcomes for each child. When dividing a class into groups, to be placed in separate classes, there are certain criteria to be taken into consideration:
It is considered best to form mixed-
Distribution of boys/girls in classrooms
The dynamics of the class must be considered. Emotional, behavioural and social factors which could upset the dynamic of the new class should be taken into consideration when forming new groupings
The process of forming new friendships is a life skill which is important to develop. A positive and supportive attitude from parents is a key element in achieving a successful outcome in the new groups
It will seldom be possible to satisfy all demands for groups of friends to be kept together. This decision will lie ultimately with the Principal, who must consider the needs of every child in the class. Parents may be consulted.
Classes may also be split in an open and transparent manner such as alphabetically or by age.
This means it is not always possible to keep friends together but the teachers of each class to be split are consulted on the above issues and much work goes into the preparatory stage of the arrangement prior to the summer holidays. Sometimes pupils move to or from the school without informing the school in advance. This is outside the control of the principal.
Classes that have been split reunite daily to play together on the playground/sports field during breaks so they can maintain existing friendships as well as make new friends in the new group. This increases their circle of friends and their abilities to form new friendships.
Explaining to parents why their child is in a split class.
The DES allots one teacher to each group of 26 pupils at present. This is known as the pupil-
Why does one half of the class have a different booklist to the other?
For other subjects the content is menu-
Although the class may be using a textbook as a guide, the teacher is dealing with each child as an individual learner. Pupils are not aware of this as it is carried out in a seamless manner by a skilled professional. Teachers choose the books and adapt them. Publishers sometimes put numbers or names of classes on books as a guide. This may be misleading for parents as the teacher, as the professional, decides on the content and skills to be taught.
When splitting a class grade, parents should be assured that the children will follow the same curriculum and have the same learning opportunities. The two teachers of the same grade will also plan co-
The supports which could be made available to children and teachers in mixed classes
The Principal, the Class Teacher and Special Education Teacher will consult on how best to organise the learning support for the mixed class. In some cases, the Special Education Teacher may work in the classroom with the Class Teacher, in a team-
All of these arrangements must be considered on a class by class basis, from year to year.
The allocation of teachers to mixed classes
It is the duty of the Principal as per Circular 16/73 to assign teaching duties.
Ratification and Review
This policy was ratified by the Board of Management on June 12 th 2018.
This policy will be reviewed in 2020 or earlier should the need arise.