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11 August 2025
With only weeks to go before NAPLAN 2023, many students may already be feeling the pressure. However, Dr Samuels believes the earlier timing is a win for teachers and learners alike.
“By running NAPLAN earlier, teachers have more time during the school year to use the results to address individual learning needs. It makes the tests far more valuable as both a diagnostic tool and a benchmarking measure,” she says.
Alongside the new date, the NAP Sample assessments for Years 6 and 10 in science, civics and citizenship, and digital literacy will now run in Term 2 instead of Term 3. Over the next three years, these assessments will become annual and available as an opt-in for any school or system.
“These subjects are essential for preparing young Australians for the future,” Dr Samuels explains. “The data gathered helps set national benchmarks and highlights areas where more resources and attention are needed.”
Dr Samuels acknowledges that one of the biggest challenges with NAPLAN is ensuring students are prepared — both academically and emotionally.
“Stress and anxiety often come from a lack of preparation, particularly in younger students,” she says. “Giving them a few weeks to consolidate the literacy and numeracy skills NAPLAN assesses is crucial. It’s also about making sure they’re familiar with the test format so they can show what they know.”
She suggests students review past NAPLAN papers to get comfortable with:
Familiarity with the style of questions not only reduces nerves but also builds confidence.
At Aussie Edu Hub, tutors integrate NAPLAN-style practice into lessons, offering feedback to strengthen literacy and numeracy skills that benefit students well beyond the test itself.
“Our goal is to give students skills for life, not just for NAPLAN,” Dr Samuels says.