Overview
- The Ministry of Education has drafted statutory ratios for the 0–3 cycle that set a maximum of four children per educator for under‑1s, six for 1–2 year‑olds and eight for 2–3 year‑olds.
- The proposal is presented as a progressive package that would phase in the new limits from the 2027–2028 school year and aim for full application at the start of the 2029–2030 academic year.
- The draft also tightens centre requirements for 0–3 schools, including a minimum of three units per centre, at least 2 square metres per child, separate rest and hygiene areas for under‑2s, a 30 m² multipurpose room, a 75 m² exclusive patio and adapted toilets.
- The Ministry extends ratio reductions beyond infant education by proposing 20 pupils per classroom in the second cycle (3–6), 22 in Primary, 25 in ESO and 30 in Bachillerato, subject to further legislative processing.
- Educators and unions have welcomed the direction but warned the phased timetable will delay classroom benefits, and implementation will depend on hiring, additional funding and negotiations with autonomous communities.