2022 marks the beginning of a new era of NAPLAN (National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy), with all schools across Australia taking the test online. Parents will also find it beneficial to know that it’s the last year NAPLAN will be conducted in Term 2. While the assessment is traditionally held in May, starting in 2023, NAPLAN will be held in mid-March.
According to the Education Ministers, “bringing the test forward puts information in teachers’ hands sooner, allowing for more targeted support for students to ensure they are gaining important literacy and numeracy skills.” NAPLAN data is especially important to schools, education authorities and governments as it is the only nation-wide test that indicates whether Australian school children are reaching critical learning goals.
Additionally, all schools will now be able to participate in NAP sample assessments. These assessments, which previously only select groups of Year 6 and 10 students could participate in, test skills and understanding in science literacy, information and communication technology (ICT) literacy, as well as civics and citizenship. The Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) explains that these extra assessments will “provide additional information for schools that take up the opportunity, showing teachers how well students are acquiring essential knowledge and understanding in key areas.”