Teaching & Learning

Important Assessment Update: Years 2–6

To help support every child's learning journey and ensure consistency across our school community, Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) mandates specific assessments for our students. These key snapshots give us a wonderful insight into how each child is progressing and allow us to celebrate their growth!

Over the coming weeks, our Years 2 to 6 students will be taking part in these assessments. Here is a quick guide on what to expect:

Weeks 3–5: PAT Maths & Reading Adaptive Assessments

During Weeks 3, 4, and 5, students will complete their PAT Maths Adaptive and PAT Reading Adaptive assessments online.

• What are they? These clever computer-based assessments adjust in real time to match each student's learning level. If a child answers a question correctly, the next one becomes a little more challenging; if they find a question tricky, the system gently adjusts to offer a question better suited to them.
• How do they help? Adaptive testing helps us celebrate what each student already knows and pinpoint where they need a little extra support or extension. This allows our teachers to tailor classroom learning directly to your child's needs.

Weeks 6–7: DIBELS Reading Testing

In Weeks 6 and 7, teachers will spend time with students in small groups and one-on-one to assess their reading through DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) testing.

• What does this look like? It's a supportive, hands-on opportunity for classroom teachers to sit directly with students and listen to them read. It helps us check in on key reading skills like sounding out words, fluency, and comprehension.

Supporting Your Child's Learning Journey

Having every student participate gives us the clearest possible picture of their progress over the year. It allows our teaching team to accurately report on your child's achievements at the end of the year and prepare the best possible learning pathways moving forward.

Planning Ahead: Upcoming Absences

If you know your child will be away at any point during Weeks 3 to 7, please reach out and let the Principal know as soon as possible at principal@sjcribpoint.catholic.edu.au. We will happily make alternative arrangements so your child doesn't miss out! Thank you so much for your partnership and support as we encourage our students to do their best.