The rates of students taking part in NAPLAN testing have largely recovered to pre-COVID levels, as highlighted in the latest Analytical Insights paper released by the Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO).
The 2024 data shows that participation in the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) has largely recovered since the COVID-19 pandemic. Data from 2023 and 2024 NAPLAN testing shows participation rates either higher (Year 5) or not significantly different (Years 3 and 7), compared to participation in 2019.
NAPLAN is Australia’s national literacy and numeracy assessment for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. It measures key aspects of student literacy and numeracy, delivering information that helps schools, families and education systems understand and support student learning.
“NAPLAN provides invaluable insights that help schools and education systems identify where students might need additional support in their learning,” said AERO CEO, Dr Jenny Donovan.
“Strong participation in NAPLAN means we’re getting a more accurate picture, which in turn ensures we can effectively support all students to reach their full potential.”
“When students participate in NAPLAN, they contribute to a comprehensive national understanding of educational achievement. This data is valuable source of information for supporting schools in targeting their resources effectively and enabling education systems to develop evidence-based policies that support student learning.”
“It also gives parents insight into their child’s progress in fundamental skills like reading, writing and mathematics. The results show not just how their child is performing, but importantly, how they’re progressing over time,” Dr Donovan said.
The research identifies opportunities to strengthen participation among some student groups, including students in very remote areas, helping to ensure all students benefit from the insights NAPLAN provides. While the intention is that all students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 take NAPLAN, there can be a variety of reasons for non-participation, including absence, withdrawal and exemption from the test.
The analysis forms part of AERO’s ongoing work to support evidence-based decision-making in education, with a focus on improving learning outcomes for all students.
The full Analytical Insights paper is available on the AERO website.
More reading: Australian study finds NAPLAN scores remained stable during pandemic school closures
