Welsh class sizes reduced

12.00.00am GMT Fri 14th Mar 2003

Class sizes have fallen in Wales thanks to increased investment by the Welsh Liberal Democrat-driven Partnership Government in the National Assembly.

The latest figures published by the National Assembly show that since the Welsh Liberal Democrats entered the present Partnership Government, the average primary class size in Wales has fallen from 25.1 pupils in September 2000 to 24.7 in September 2002.

The most marked fall has been at junior level. The average class size for 5-8 year olds has fallen from 26.5 pupils to 25.4.

Welsh Liberal Democrat Assembly leader Michael German said, "The Welsh Liberal Democrats continue to be the driving force behind a distinct policy agenda for education. It is pleasing to see that our different approach to England, where Labour governs alone, is producing such excellent results.

"Smaller class sizes will mean a better quality of education. Welsh Liberal Democrats have pledged to continue to target investment in this vital area."