Assessment

Regular assessment is regarded as an integral part of the curriculum. Academic progress is monitored regularly, and staff analyse and act on the results as appropriate.

An ongoing assessment programme operates in each class – informal formative assessment and more structured summative testing.

Formative assessment takes many forms designed so that students understand and have a sense of ownership of their learning, with teachers and students working collaboratively to address learning needs. Students have immediate feedback, direction and help towards their learning goals.

The school uses several assessment tools for summative testing including Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT) annually from Year 3 to Year 8. Prior to that we have our own version of the national ‘Six Year Check” (phonics based) and an ‘Eight Year Check’ (incorporating a Neale analysis). These are used to assess early intervention needs and monitor progress against expected norms.

Formal exams are held in Term Four for the middle school and Terms 2 and 4 in the senior school. In English and Mathematics, the Cambridge Progression Tests are used. In Year Six, students sit the Cambridge Checkpoint tests in English, Maths and Science, which are externally set and marked. Annually all students from Year 4 to 8 are entered in for the Australian Mathematics Competition. Other tests such as ICAS, the International Competitions and Assessments for Schools, are occasionally used.