Principal's Message 

Dear God,

We ask for Your guidance as our students begin their NAPLAN assessments. Help them approach each task with confidence, knowing they are supported. May their efforts reflect the hard work they have put into their learning. Bless our teachers and parents, that together we may nurture each child’s growth and potential.

Amen

NAPLAN Testing Has Begun  

Dear Parents and Carers,

This week, we have already begun NAPLAN testing for our students in Year 3 and Year 5. NAPLAN is an important assessment that helps us measure literacy and numeracy skills across the school and provides valuable insights into individual student progress.

During this time, students will complete the tests in a supportive environment, and our teachers will be on hand to ensure everyone feels prepared and comfortable. While these assessments are an important tool, we want to remind students and parents that they are just one part of the broader learning journey.

At St. Andrews, we use both school-wide and individual NAPLAN data to support every student’s learning. By analysing the results, we can identify specific areas where students may need additional support or enrichment, allowing us to tailor our teaching strategies to meet their needs. This data also helps us make informed decisions about our school's direction, ensuring that we are continuously improving our teaching practices and providing the best possible educational experience for all students.

Last year, Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) introduced explicit instruction across its nearly 300 schools, including St. Andrews. This method ensures that students learn step by step, with clear explanations, demonstrations, and a strong emphasis on phonics in reading. This was as a direct result of Naplan results across the sector.

The results speak for themselves. St. Andrews School, Clayton South, has been ranked in the top 10 most improved schools in Year 3 numeracy proficiency, with an impressive 18.5% increase. This promising result highlights the effectiveness of this structured teaching approach.

We encourage students to approach NAPLAN with confidence, knowing that it’s an opportunity to showcase their abilities and that it is only one of many ways we track progress.

Thank you for your ongoing support as we embark on this important process. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Regards

Brian Martin

Principal