Extra and additional hands in the classroom

We aim to reduce the burden on teachers and schools by organizing additional support. Students work in pairs with a regular teacher over an extended period. They take over part of the lessons, such as those where previously explained theory is applied. This reduces the workload for teachers. We are investigating how the deployment of students works in practice and the benefits it brings to teachers, pupils, and the students themselves.

The objective of this intervention is to reduce the workload of teachers through the deployment of students. Students assist teachers and can take over some of their tasks. We are developing an approach in co-creation and testing it in various schools.

Students are deployed in pairs for a specific subject over an extended period. They work under the guidance of a regular teacher and take over part of the lessons, such as those where previously explained theory is applied. By working in pairs, students can learn from each other and support each other during lessons. We explore the best division of tasks, how it can be organized practically, and what it brings to teachers, pupils, and the students. In the 2024-2025 school year, we will run the first pilots in schools.

Schools interested in deploying students can contact our co-creation manager Derk Bransen (d.bransen@maastrichtuniversity.nl) for more information. Schools from across the country are welcome.