School Review Process – Improvements from 2026

In line with the recommendations from the Independent Review into Administrative and Compliance Activities in Victorian Government Schools, the Department has introduced changes to the school review process from next year, with the aim of reducing workload and ensuring reviews remain purposeful rather than burdensome.

From the commencement of next year, the Department will introduce changes to make the school review process more streamlined, efficient, and focused.

• Less preparation timeThe pre-review self-evaluation will require less commentary, with Department-collected evidence pre-populated for you. Uploading supporting evidence will no longer be required, although schools may still choose to add material if they wish.
• Fewer review daysReviews will be shorter, ranging from one to four days depending on your school’s Differentiated School Performance Method (DPSM) group, size, and regional consultation. School reviewers will confirm the number of days allocated.
• Clearer reportsReview reports will be shorter and easier to use. They will highlight key findings and set out the goals, targets, and strategies for the School Strategic Plan.
• Curriculum and Student Learning Minimum StandardOnly a sample of primary schools will be assessed against this standard with school reviewers advising schools if they have been selected. All secondary and specialist schools will continue to be assessed. 

These changes are strongly welcomed and reflect the consistent advocacy of the APF on behalf of members. The Department has clearly listened to principals’ feedback, and we are pleased to see these improvements align closely with the issues we have raised over recent years.