More than a third of Laois primary school children in overcrowded classes -INMO

More than a third of primary school children in Laois are in overcrowded classes, according to the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation (INTO). New figures from the INTO show that 4,068 pupils, 39% of primary school children, learn in overcrowded classes of 25 pupils or more in the county. 

Speaking on the issue this week Anne Horan, INTO President said schools continue to face challenges, from rising operational costs to large class sizes and limited support for pupils with additional needs.

"Our schools are under immense pressure, and we need urgent government action to ensure our children receive the education they deserve. Following the General Election last year, the Budget this October will be the first real measure of the current coalition Government’s commitment to supporting primary and special education.

"As the new school term begins in earnest in primary and special schools across the country, teachers and school leaders are growing increasingly concerned about the pressure facing our education system.

"From the inadequate funding of our schools, overcrowding in our classrooms, the lack of support to maintain our cherished small schools and the need to scale up our support for the delivery of special education, we simply must do better."

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Ms Horan said the current capitation grant, set at €224 per pupil, falls short of what many schools need to operate. She said this is forcing teachers and parents alike to strive to raise the funds to cover basic necessities like electricity, cleaning, and teaching resources. 

"Ensuring our schools are adequately funded must be a core responsibility of the government and it is abundantly clear that greater support must be provided," she said. 

The INTO is calling for the government to increase the primary capitation grant by €75 per pupil. The INTO is also calling on government to deliver on its promise to bring class sizes in line with the European Average of 19 pupils by ensuring a two-point reduction in class sizes is put in place from September 2026.