Updated NAPLAN tests get underway

The state government will make NAPLAN results easier-to-understand for parents and carers, with reforms to the annual test providing a clearer picture on how their child is performing at school.

More than 300,000 students at 2350 Victorian schools started the annual NAPLAN tests on Wednesday, March 15.

Among new changes to improve and modernise NAPLAN, the tests have been moved forward to March to enable the crucial data to better support students and target assistance earlier in the year.

New proficiency standards with four levels of achievement will replace the previous 10-band structure and the old national minimum standard set in 2008 when tests were on paper.

Each child’s NAPLAN report will show how they’re tracking against their peers using four easy-to-understand standards: developing, approaching proficient, proficient and highly proficient.

This year the test will take place fully online, with the exception of the Grade 3 writing test, which will be on paper.

NAPLAN will continue to measure student achievement in numeracy, reading, writing, spelling, grammar and punctuation.

Education Minister Natalie Hutchins said the start of the updated NAPLAN tests is “an exciting day for students across the state”.

“I wish each and every one of them the best of luck as they embark on this year’s NAPLAN test,” she said.

“The changes to NAPLAN reporting and timing will provide more informative and useful information to schools, parents and carers.”