Composite classes (sometimes called multi-age classes) usually occur when there are too many students for one class, but not enough for two classes of the same year group. Composite classes have a controversial history, with parents often believing that their child is disadvantaged by being in one. While many can see the benefits of multi-age classes for the accelerated learning of younger children, they also fear the older students will be bored or held back with easier work.

The key to appreciating the benefits of composite classes is in understanding that growth is determined in stages and not by ages. Ironically, every class is already a composite in terms of the range in school starting ages and the different academic abilities of the students. State educational authorities throughout Australia group student learning into stages, usually over a two-year period. The emphasis is on the progression of the individual through logical stages of learning. In every class – including composite classes – students are assessed to ascertain their current level of learning. The teacher will then design and implement a program that caters for all students’ needs, while keeping in mind that content in the stage or stages must be taught.

Before a composite class is formed, teachers consider the children’s learning stages and decide which would be the best way of organising the class or classes. By allocating children to classes according to specific learning needs, it is possible to arrange classes with narrower ranges of abilities.

Composite classes can have many advantages for teachers and students:

• Teaching in a composite class compels teachers to think of children as individuals.
• The techniques of group teaching and of individual instruction can be applied in composite classes.
• Learning-through-teaching is promoted when students at different stages of learning can help each other with their work.
• Composite classes can be arranged so that they are a means for catering for the special needs of talented children as well as slower learners.

The latest teaching and learning materials are being developed with multi-age classes in mind, allowing teachers to simultaneously develop an understanding of learning outcomes at different levels within a Stage. Wherever possible, the teaching and learning activities within each Stage are parallel to each other, ensuring that teachers can introduce core concepts to the whole class and differentiate instruction for the range of learners in the classroom.

Useful Links

In-stage Composite Series Maths Plus