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Open petition: Introduce a legal maximum class size of 24 pupils in primary schools in England

Created by Francesca Gilbert
Closes on

Pass legislation to limit all primary school classes in England to 24 pupils. This would help ensure teachers can manage classrooms effectively, that pupils get the support they need, and that inclusive practice for SEND children is realistic

Average primary classes in England are 26–27 pupils, with no legal limit for Years 3–6. Nearly 1 in 5 pupils have SEND. Smaller classes would improve learning, behaviour, and wellbeing, reduce teacher workload, increase teacher retention, and make inclusive classrooms possible. There are other countries with smaller classes which have better outcomes.

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  • Petition published

    This petition can now be signed.

    If this petition gets 10,000 signatures, government will respond to it.

    If this petition gets 100,000 signatures, it will be considered for debate in Parliament.

    This petition will stay open until 8 October 2026.