Changes to NAPLAN in 2023
From 2023, there will be three main changes to the way the National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is administered and scored.
1. NAPLAN tests will be held in Term 1, allowing results to be returned to systems, schools and parents/carers earlier in the year.
2. NAPLAN is moving online to deliver more precise information.
3. The previous numerical NAPLAN bands will be replaced with the following 4 levels of achievement:
• Exceeding
• Strong
• Developing
• Needs additional support.
The descriptors for each category will make it clear to parents what their child’s literacy and numeracy skills are at the time of NAPLAN testing, and support discussions with their school on their child’s progress.
Why do students do NAPLAN?
NAPLAN is a national literacy and numeracy assessment that students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 sit each year. It is the only national assessment all Australian students have the opportunity to undertake.
As students progress through their school years, it’s important to check how well they are learning the essential skills of reading, writing and numeracy.
How are NAPLAN results used?
- Students and parents/carers may use individual results to discuss progress with teachers.
- Teachers use results to help identify students who need greater challenges or extra support.
- Schools use results to identify strengths and areas of need to improve teaching programs, and to set goals in literacy and numeracy.
- School systems use results to review the effectiveness of programs and support offered to schools.
- The community can see information about the performance of schools over time at My School.
What can I do to support my child?
Students are not expected to study for NAPLAN. You can support your child by reassuring them that NAPLAN is a part of their school program and reminding them to simply do their best. Some familiarisation and explanation of NAPLAN is useful to help students understand and be comfortable with the format of the tests. Teachers will ensure students are familiar with the types of questions in the tests and will provide appropriate support and guidance.
For more information, please see the parent section of the NAPLAN website.
You may also find the following two flyers helpful: