The Northwest Regional Education Laboratory in Oregon USA has published research on the advantages of small schools.
The findings show that:
Academic achievement in small schools is at least equal - and often superior - to that of large schools.
Student attitudes toward school in general and toward particular school subjects are more positive in small schools.
Student social behaviour (as measured by truancy, discipline problems, violence etc.) is more positive in small schools.
Levels of extra-curricular participation are much higher and more varied in small schools.
Student attendance is better in small schools.
A smaller percentage of students drop out from small schools.
Students have a greater sense of belonging in small schools.
Student academic and general self-regard is higher in small schools.
Interpersonal relationships between and among students, teachers and administrators are more positive in small schools.
Teacher attitudes towards their work are more positive in small schools.
Larger schools are not necessarily less expensive to operate than small schools.
