Student Wellbeing

NAPLAN BEGINS WEEK 7  

How to best support your child

Next week is the beginning of NAPLAN for our Year 3 and Year 5 students. It is very normal for children to feel a mix of excitement and nerves at this time. At Greenhills, we remind our students that NAPLAN is simply one assessment on one day. It does not define who they are, it also does not capture the full range of their abilities, talents and strengths.

We encourage students to approach NAPLAN just like any other school day. We tell our students to try their best, stay calm and be proud of their effort.

How Families Can Help at Home

Your support makes a significant difference in how your child feels about NAPLAN. Here are some simple and effective ways to help:

Keep conversations calm and positive 

Speak about NAPLAN as an opportunity to show what they know. Avoid building it up as something big or stressful. Reassure your child that effort matters more than perfection.

Focus on strengths

Remind your child that NAPLAN does not measure creativity, kindness, sporting ability, musical talent, resilience or teamwork. Celebrate the many qualities that make them unique.

Encourage a growth mindset

If your child feels unsure, remind them that challenges help us grow. Phrases such as “Just try your best” and “Mistakes help us learn” build confidence.

Prioritise wellbeing

• Ensure a good night’s sleep
• Provide a healthy breakfast
• Arrive at school on time to help them feel settled
• Keep after-school routines calm during testing days

Keep learning natural

There is no need for extra pressure or cramming. Reading together, discussing books or current events, practising times tables in everyday situations, or encouraging clear writing in shopping lists or notes are all helpful in simple, low-stress ways.

At Greenhills, we are committed to nurturing every child academically, socially and emotionally. While NAPLAN provides useful information about student progress, it is only one part of a much bigger picture. It also helps us reflect on our teaching practices and continually improve the learning experiences we provide.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership and support. Together, we help our students feel safe, supported, confident and ready to do their best.  

             Janine Hough                                             Brad Ryan

 janine.hough@education.vic.gov.au   Bradley.Ryan@education.vic.gov.au