Deputy Principal's Message 

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) Practice Tests 

This week, students in Years 3 and 5 will be participating in an online practice NAPLAN test. The purpose of the practice is to enable students to become familiar and comfortable with particular features of the online format. The tests are not marked or scored and are simply to allow the students to practice using the online format in a supportive environment. Year 5 students will complete an online practice writing test as well as an ‘omnibus’ test which includes elements of the reading, language conventions and numeracy assessments. Year 3 will participate in the omnibus practice test only and will be completing the writing test in May via paper format.  

NAPLAN assesses literacy and numeracy skills that are essential for every child to progress through school and life and assesses skills that students are learning through their regular school curriculum. It is only one aspect of our assessment and reporting process - it does not replace ongoing assessments made by teachers about student performance and understanding. Students across Australia are assessed on the same literacy and numeracy curriculum content, regardless of whether they complete the tests online or on paper.  

The formal 2021 NAPLAN Online test window is 11 – 21 May, Weeks 4 and 5 of next term. It is expected that all students will participate in the assessment program. However, students may be withdrawn from the tests at the request of their parent/carer. Exemption must be discussed with the school principal, Mr Pryce. Please contact the school as soon as possible if you intend on withdrawing your child from the practice tests or by 23 April for an exemption from the formal NAPLAN Online assessment.  

To find out more about NAPLAN online, please visit the National Assessment Program website  and https://nap.edu.au/online-assessment  or access the NAPLAN Online Parent Brochure.

Ex-student Visit and Donation 

Last week, our student leaders were treated to a special visit from an ex-student of Ben Venue, Shinjini Mehta who spoke with the students about her life experiences as an architect and engineer working on important water projects in many countries around the world. 

We would like to extend a huge thank you to Shinjini for her very generous donation of $2500 worth of resources for the Makerspace in the library and some new ukuleles for the music room. It was our pleasure to welcome Shinjini back to Ben Venue after so many years and we are extremely grateful for her philanthropy. We are certain the students will exercise their problem solving and creative thinking skills while making the most of the new resources. 

Happy Holidays 

It has been a productive and busy first term at Ben Venue, which has seen many events and extra-curricular activities return now that COVID restrictions are lifting. I wish all students and families a happy and safe holiday and look forward to seeing everyone again after the break, ready for what I am sure will be another busy term. 

Lana Howlett                        

Relieving Deputy Principal