Assessing and reporting

At Manly Vale Public School, assessment is not just about tests. It’s about understanding each child deeply so we can support, extend and celebrate them as they grow. Our approach blends expert teaching, consistent whole-school practices and meaningful communication with families to ensure every student feels confident, capable and proud of their progress.

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Why assessment matters

Assessment helps us understand what each child knows, what they can do, and what they need next. It allows our teachers to tailor learning, monitor growth and provide timely feedback that truly makes a difference.
Our school uses assessment to:

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How we assess learning

We use a balance of school-wide assessments and teacher-designed tasks throughout the year. This gives us a clear and consistent picture of each student’s progress.

Whole-school assessments

These assessments are used across the school for consistency and accuracy. They include:

  • reading fluency (ORF) and comprehension (MAZE)
  • PAT Reading and PAT Maths for Years 1–6
  • school-based writing samples
  • SA Spelling test
  • InitaLit formative and on-going assessments (K-2)
  • ongoing numeracy checks
  • public speaking tasks

In-class assessments

Teachers also use a range of ongoing assessments such as:

  • exit tickets
  • observations and conferencing
  • pre- and post-tests
  • inquiry tasks and projects
  • anecdotal notes

Department of Education Standardised Assessment

  • NAPLAN - Years 3 and 5
  • Check-in Assessments - Years 3-6
  • Year 1 Phonics Screener
  • Year 1 Numeracy Screener
  • Kindergarten Best Start Assessment

These help teachers adapt lessons in real time and provide personal, meaningful feedback.

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Supporting every learner

Assessment plays a vital role in identifying students who may need additional support or extra challenge. It helps our Learning & Support Team and High Potential & Gifted Education Team tailor programs, adjustments and interventions.

This includes support for students with disability, EAL/D learners, students with behavioural or emotional needs, and those requiring extension or enrichment.

We work closely with families to ensure supports are transparent, collaborative and effective.

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Types of assessment we use

Assessment for learning

Ongoing checks that help us adjust teaching and give students guidance right when they need it.
Assessment as learning
Opportunities for students to reflect on their progress, set goals and take ownership of their learning.
Assessment of learning
End-of-unit or semester assessments that help us evaluate achievement and report to families.

How we use data

Our leadership and teaching teams regularly analyse school data to monitor cohort trends, identify next steps and ensure high expectations across classrooms. Teachers meet in Stage Teams to discuss patterns, track growth and plan targeted responses.

This consistent approach ensures every learner is seen, supported and extended.

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Reporting to families

Clear, open communication with families is a core part of our assessment approach.

Image of Manly Vale Public School's Academic Report that is sent home to parents twice a year. Front cover and second page are shown only.

Formal Reporting

Families receive two written academic reports per year (Semester 1 & Semester 2), aligned to the NSW Curriculum and Department requirements. Reports include:

  • A–E achievement grades (Years 1–6)
  • effort indicators
  • personalised comments about progress and learning behaviours
Image of Manly Vale Public School's Personalised Learning Plan (PLP). First three pages are shown only.

Meetings and Ongoing Communication

  • Parent–teacher interviews occur in Term 1
  • Additional meetings are available anytime upon request
  • Students receiving targeted support may have Personalised Learning Plans (PLPs) or EAL/D updates
  • Regular updates via School Bytes, email, and phone calls keep families informed
Image of Manly Vale Public School's first three pages of an example review meeting minutes.

Support Reviews

Students receiving integration funding have formal review meetings each semester with teachers, support staff and families.

Learning

Find out about our approach to learning and supporting students to progress.

Travel to school

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