Since its introduction in 2008, NAPLAN testing has continued to evolve. Over recent years, NAPLAN tests have changed from traditional pen-and-paper tests to an online adaptive form. This means that student responses determine the individual level of difficulty of the tests. Correct responses provide access to more challenging questions and show student achievement in literacy and numeracy regardless of their year group.

This year, students sat the tests earlier than in previous years in Term 1. Reporting on the results will also look different this year with the ten bands replaced by the four achievement levels listed below:

• Exceeding
• Strong
• Developing
• Needs Additional Support

The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) explains that “the standard for proficiency is set at a challenging but reasonable level. If your child is in the Strong or Exceeding category, it means they have demonstrated proficiency and that their literacy or numeracy skills are where they should be at this stage of their schooling. If your child has not yet achieved proficiency, then they will either be in the Developing category or the Needs Additional Support category.”

This change in reporting means that 2023 NAPLAN results will not be comparable with previous years. However, ACARA states that “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. Student reports will continue to show the national average and the range of achievement for the middle sixty percent of students in their year level, allowing comparison of a child’s achievement against these measures.”

Click here for more information about the changes to NAPLAN testing and reporting.