Within multilevel classes, the most common form of class is the double-level class, since it represents 86% of cases, according to data from the FCPE. Triple-level classes represent only 11% of multi-level classes. In 2016, 72% of students in rural areas were educated in a multi-level class, compared to 29% of students living in cities. 

However, the fall in the birth rate, and ultimately the number of children in school, which has been observed for several years, has in fact generalized use of double-level classes, even in the heart of Paris, where the price of apartments often forces families to move to the suburbs. Small rural schools, for their part, often have no choice but to set up dual-level classes. The most frequent configurations are CM1 / CM2 or CE1 / CE2. As the CP is a special year with a capital importance given to the learning of reading, it is often kept in single level, as far as possible, or shared with the CE1, but rarely in double level with a CM.

For parents, the announcement of the child’s schooling in a double-level class is often source of anguish, or at least of questions : 

  • will my child navigate this change in functioning?
  • is it not in danger of regressing? (if he is for example in CM2 in a CM1 / CM2 class)
  • Will my child have time to complete the entire school program for their level?
  • is it not likely to do less well than those enrolled in a one-level class?

Double level class: what if it was a chance?

However, if we are to believe the various studies carried out on the subject, double-level classes would be good for children, in many aspects.

Certainly, on the organizational side, there are sometimes a few days of hesitation (you may have realized this at the beginning of the year), because not only do you have to separate the class “physically” (cycle 2 on the one hand, cycle 3 on the other), but in addition it is necessary to separate the schedules.

But children quickly understand whether this or that exercise is for them or not, and they gain more quickly than others in autonomy. Under the teacher’s gaze, real interactions take place between the children of the two “classes” who share certain activities (plastic arts, music, sport, etc.), even if the skills required are specified by level.

Likewise, the life of the class (maintenance of plants, animals) is carried out jointly. In such a class, the “little ones” are drawn upwards by the big ones, while the “big ones” are valued and feel more “mature” : in computer science, for example, the “big ones” can become the tutors of the little ones, and be proud to show the acquired skills.

In short, no need to worry. Moreover, it is time for the National Education to rename these “double level classes” in “double section classes”. Which would frighten parents much less. And would reflect their modus operandi much more.

Moreover, it would be naive to believe that the one-level class is really one : there are always small “latecomers”, or on the contrary children who go faster than the others to assimilate the concepts, which obliges the teacher to be flexible at all times, to adapt. Heterogeneity is there no matter what, and you have to deal with it.

Double level class: the advantages

  • better relations between “small” and “large”, some feeling boosted, others valued; 
  • mutual aid and autonomy are favored, which promotes learning;
  • the boundaries by age group are less marked;
  • collective discussion times exist for both levels
  • moments of discovery can be shared, but also distinct
  • a work very structured by time, with the key to better time management of work.

Double level class: what drawbacks?

  • some children with poor independence may have difficulty adapting to this organization, at least at the beginning;
  • this organization asks a lot of preparation and organization for the teacher, who has to juggle different school programs (his investment in this class may also differ if it is a chosen class or an endured class);
  • children with academic difficulties, who would need more time to assimilate certain concepts, can sometimes have difficulty following.

In any case, don’t worry too much: your child can thrive in a double-level class. By following his progress, by being attentive to his feelings, you will be able, over the days, to check that your child is enjoying his class. 

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