For schools
Schools play a central role in ensuring the smooth running of NAPLAN tests. Each year, ACARA and test administration authorities (TAAs) in each state and territory provide information and support to schools to ensure they understand what is required to support the administration of NAPLAN tests.
From 2023, NAPLAN results are reported against proficiency standards with 4 levels of achievement to give teachers, parents and carers clearer information on how students are performing. Read more at Results and reports.
Administration of NAPLAN
The ‘NAPLAN national protocols for test administration’ is the high-level guide to the administration of NAPLAN tests. The protocols are developed by ACARA with state, territory and non-government representatives and ensure that test administration is a consistent process across the country. Further details are available at National protocols for test administration.
The Guidelines for managing test incidents in schools (PDF 1 MB) provide instructions to schools on the steps to take if a test breach happens at their school.
Guidance on managing student participation, including information on which students are eligible for exemption from NAPLAN, how to manage withdrawals, and accommodating participation for students absent from school on test dates is available from Student participation.
top
Adjustments for students with disability
Information on the available adjustments for students with disability, including example scenarios, is set out in the Accessibility section. Further information can be found in section 6 of the protocols, and the FAQs.
Brochures for parents/carers and the community
ACARA produces a ‘NAPLAN information brochure for parents and carers’ which schools can provide to members of their local community. It includes the key information parents/carers need to know about NAPLAN, including dates of NAPLAN tests.
See Results and reports for information on NAPLAN individual student reports (ISRs), including FAQs and example reports for Years 3, 5, 7 and 9.
top
Support material and advice provided by test administration authorities (TAAs)
The ‘NAPLAN handbook for principals and NAPLAN coordinators’ is provided to schools by the relevant test administration authority (TAA) early each year. The handbook contains key extracts from the protocols, as well as supplementary information applicable to each jurisdiction. Principals are responsible for ensuring that all relevant staff in their school are aware of the testing provisions in the handbook, including the code of conduct.
The ‘NAPLAN test administration handbook for teachers’ is prepared by ACARA and provided by the relevant TAA. This handbook is designed to lead teachers as test administrators through the precise process for administering the tests.
While TAAs have responsibility for the implementation and administration of NAPLAN tests within their jurisdictions, school principals have ultimate responsibility within their schools for ensuring tests are appropriately administered.
If you have questions in relation to the administration of NAPLAN, advice should be sought from your local TAA.
More information