It is unacceptable that there are over half a million children taught in underfunded primary schools, according to INTO General Secretary John Boyle.
He said that there more than 559,000 children are taught in large classes in underfunded primary schools where there is minimal support for school leaders.
"This is not acceptable. The next government must change this reality. One in five primary school children is taught in a class of 30 or more pupils. The EU average class size is 20. Why can’t we have the same in Ireland?
"Smaller class sizes have a positive effect on children’s learning. Primary teachers support a broad range of pupil needs from special needs to language challenges and homelessness.
"Disadvantaged schools deal with unique challenges. They need a fair break. The Irish National Teachers’ Organisation is asking candidates to pledge to reduce class sizes by one pupil per class per year for the next five years .This election, vote for your local primary school and let’s make classes of twenty a reality by 2025<' said Mr Boyle.
