Many students come to Brampton College feeling like they were just another face in a crowded classroom — often having experienced class sizes of 25 or more. They talk about a sense of being overlooked or being ‘just another number’.
How many students are taught in a classroom at Brampton?
At Brampton, lessons take place in small groups, with an average of just 7 students per class and a maximum of 9. This intimate setting allows our teachers to give each student the attention they truly deserve — offering personalised feedback, tailored academic support, and a deeper understanding of individual learning styles. Lessons are tailored, feedback is personalised, and support is continuous — helping every learner feel seen, heard, and empowered. One student, Arlen, says exactly this: “At Brampton, classes rarely exceed seven students, and that intimacy changes the pace and quality of learning—you are seen, heard, and supported.”
How do small class sizes help learning?
In this close-knit environment, students feel less intimidated to ask questions, build confidence, and take ownership of their learning. It’s a space where they’re not only supported academically, but also nurtured — so they can thrive in every sense.
Samarjit who achieved AAA in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics, and a place at the University of Birmingham to study Medicine, says “small class sizes meant that lessons felt personal and interactive, and I was constantly encouraged to engage.”
Gracie, who is off to study Veterinary Medicine says, “I joined Brampton College after finding my previous school environment challenging, and I quickly discovered that the smaller learning experience suited me much better. The support I received from my subject teachers was invaluable as they took the time to understand my individual difficulties and helped me build both confidence and resilience.”
Are teachers available outside of lessons?
Students also tell us that at their previous schools, it was difficult to have any access to teachers outside of lesson time. At Brampton, that’s different. Our teachers are available beyond the classroom — whether it’s for extra help, one-to-one guidance, or simply a reassuring conversation.
Elliot who achieved an A* in Further Mathematics in a one-year course, comments how Brampton’s unique academic culture made all the difference. “The teachers were always available to help,” he says, reflecting on the constant support and guidance he received. “I couldn’t have done it at any other school.”
Arteen who achieved A*A*A* comments along the same lines that, “The personal support here has been on another level. Whenever you need anything, teachers will make time for you, no matter what.”
Mike, who achieved A*A*A*A, comments, “With small classes, the teaching felt personal and interactive, and every lesson gave me the chance to ask questions and receive immediate feedback. In Economics, for example, I could submit extra essays each week, and my teacher would happily mark them and even arrange one-to-one sessions to go through them in detail. That support pushed my essay writing to the highest level, something I never thought I would achieve.”
How is teaching improved in smaller class sizes?
It’s no surprise that there are numerous studies showing the positive impact on students who are taught in smaller class sizes. However, the impact stretches beyond just the student. There’s also evidence supporting the fact that teacher effectiveness and wellbeing is heightened in smaller classes. Teachers in smaller classes report higher job satisfaction and lower stress levels. They can tailor instruction more effectively and build stronger relationships with students. This leads to better feedback, more responsive teaching, and improved classroom dynamics. (Number Analytics – The Impact of Class Size on Student Success).
One of our English teachers explains how she feels the benefit of teaching smaller classes. “Fewer students means that we can develop more personal relationships. It also results in all students having to participate in the lesson through taking part in class discussion. It is also easier for the teacher to check the students’ understanding – this can even be non-verbal and often takes place without the student needing to explicitly ask for help.
Finally, small groups also enables me to return marked work more quickly. In my previous job – it would take me several hours just to mark one set of 25 essays. This meant that student had to wait for at least a week or more to get their marked essays returned. “
If you are interested in experiencing the advantages of smaller class sizes and taking full advantage of all that Brampton has to offer, we encourage you to contact us. Our team will be pleased to provide more information and discuss your individual requirements. You can contact us by clicking on this link: How to Apply | Private Sixth Form, London | Brampton College
