There have been discussions in the media this week regarding NAPLAN. Connectivity issues have interrupted tests at varying degrees.

Our NAPLAN testing started on Tuesday with Year 3 completing their writing test on paper, whilst the Year 5 students completed their Writing test online. After our first break the two grades joined together and completed their Reading tests. Day one was completed and successful. Day two did not run as smoothly. The session began smoothly with all students feeling calm and ready to do their best. Unfortunately, connectivity issues began to arise, and many students were experiencing interrupted testing. The decision was made to postpone all students because the issues were across our Archdiocese and out of our control.  Leaving the test until Wednesday proved to be a good decision as connectivity issues were not resolved until later in the afternoon. Day three of the testing was then, reopening the tests, adding time that had been lost and allowing students to do their best. Finally, day four, today is our last day of testing. We will complete the Numeracy test this morning and congratulate the students on their patience, effort and willingness to give “it their best shot.”

This morning I spoke to one of my colleagues who made the important statement that, at the heart of NAPLAN is the student’s learning, it is one set of data to help us see the next steps in a student’s learning. So very true.

Caz Perryman

Spirited learner