NAPLAN is often perceived in the broader community as a high-stakes, judgmental assessment that labels students, ranks schools, and creates unnecessary pressure. This view tends to reduce students to numbers and comparisons, overlooking their individual learning journeys, diverse talents, and personal growth. Such a perception can foster anxiety among students, parents, and teachers, shifting the focus from learning and development to performance and competition.
Here at Illawarra Christian School, we believe that NAPLAN provides valuable insights into students’ literacy and numeracy skills, helping us identify areas of strength and opportunities for growth. This information enables us to tailor our teaching to better nurture each student’s potential, while also ensuring we maintain high educational standards in a way that aligns with our Christian values of care, excellence, and stewardship.
Our outstanding results across all NAPLAN areas in Years 3, 5, 7, and 9 reflect the rigorous, Christ-centred education we provide—one that balances academic excellence with deep care for each student. At ICS, we take the time to truly know our students as individuals, understanding their unique strengths, challenges, and learning needs. This allows us to offer the right support and stretch at the right time, ensuring every child is both nurtured and challenged. Our success in NAPLAN is not just about strong results, but about the fruit of a learning environment where students are known, valued, and equipped to thrive.
In 2025, our school achieved outstanding NAPLAN results, with cohorts in each of Years 3, 5, 7, and 9 averaging Strong ability in all assessed domains. Many of our students exceeded the expected achievement levels for their age and stage. These results are a testament to the strength of our rigorous academic program, our deep commitment to knowing each student personally, and our ability to provide both the support and challenge they need to thrive. At the heart of our success is a learning environment shaped by care, high expectations, and a belief in each child’s God-given potential.
Mrs Simone Brown
Director of Teaching & Learning / Student Learning Opportunities
