The National Education Union (NEU) is urging the government to seize a unique opportunity presented by declining pupil numbers in England’s schools to reduce class sizes. With around one million students currently being educated in classes exceeding 31 pupils, NEU General Secretary Daniel Kebede argues that smaller class sizes would enhance educational outcomes and support teachers in delivering quality instruction.
A Shift in Enrolment Trends
Recent statistics from the Department for Education indicate a projected 6.8% decrease in primary pupil enrolment between 2023 and 2029, while secondary school numbers are expected to remain stable. This decline in primary school enrolment raises questions about how resources should be allocated, especially in light of the government’s ongoing commitment to recruit an additional 6,500 teachers across secondary and special schools, as well as further education colleges. To date, 4,654 new teachers have been appointed, marking significant progress towards this goal.
However, the latest figures reveal a concerning trend: a reduction of 1,900 full-time teachers across schools in 2025. In April 2026, the government clarified that its recruitment target does not encompass primary schools or early years education. Consequently, with falling primary pupil numbers, the recruitment target for the upcoming school year has been slashed by 23%.
The Need for Smaller Class Sizes
Kebede emphasised that the government should focus on utilising this “historic opportunity” to reduce class sizes rather than cutting teacher recruitment. He noted that England currently has the largest class sizes in Europe, which adversely affects the quality of education. “We have a million children taught in classes of 31 or more,” he said, highlighting the urgent need for reform. He further pointed out that during the last Labour government, the rate of teacher recruitment lagged behind pupil enrolment, which compounded existing challenges.
Kebede called for an increased number of teachers to be appointed, particularly as the government plans to support a greater number of students with special educational needs in mainstream schools by 2030.
Challenges in Recruitment and Funding
At North Mead Primary Academy in Leicester, Principal Ben Burpitt shared the struggles faced in recruiting specialist teachers to cater to the needs of vulnerable pupils. Nearly half of the academy’s students qualify for free school meals, and many have special educational needs, making the search for adequately trained staff even more critical. “We have had particular trouble trying to find a specially trained teacher for our group of most vulnerable children,” Burpitt explained.
With the decline in student numbers, Burpitt anticipates a corresponding drop in school funding, which is allocated on a per-pupil basis. This financial pressure necessitates careful management of resources to ensure the right balance of teachers and support staff.
The pay offer for support staff has been confirmed at 3.3% for the 2026-27 academic year, a cost borne by the school’s budget. To address these challenges, many schools are resorting to training their own staff. Sara McAdam, who oversees the training programme, acknowledged the need to adapt to the changing birth rate and the consequent shifts in enrolment. “We’re going to have to look at that and make sure that we’re not recruiting too many primary trainees so that they aren’t then able to be employed by the end of the year,” she said.
New Beginnings for Educators
Among the new teachers at North Mead this year is Joseph Brown, who transitioned from a teaching assistant role to a qualified teacher through the academy trust’s training programme. Brown, who has recently joined the profession, expressed his satisfaction with his new earnings, which start at approximately £32,000. “It’s not necessarily something that you do for money. You do the job because you enjoy it,” he remarked, reflecting the passion many educators have for their vocation.
As discussions surrounding teachers’ pay continue, the NEU is poised to ballot for a strike if the forthcoming government pay announcement fails to provide adequate funding rather than relying on school budgets. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring every child is taught by an exceptional teacher, asserting that progress is being made in recruiting and retaining educators.
Why it Matters
The call for smaller class sizes in light of declining pupil numbers is more than just an administrative suggestion; it speaks to the heart of educational quality and equity. In an era where students’ needs are becoming more complex, particularly for those requiring special educational support, ensuring that classrooms are adequately staffed and resourced is essential. The decisions made today will shape the educational landscape for future generations, and the government’s response could either bolster or undermine the teaching profession at a critical juncture.
