Assessment and examination
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Our teachers use a variety of strategies to assess student learning. Teachers observe students' work in class and look closely at tasks throughout the year. They also formally assess a student's achievement based on the outcomes described in the syllabus of the subject. As a parent or carer, you’ll receive a written report twice a year.
Assessment handbooks
Our assessment handbooks contain the assessment procedures and course assessment schedules for 2025 Years 8 to 12 at Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School. Students need to ensure they have read and understood the requirements of the assessment program so that they are aware of their responsibilities and those of the school. These handbooks are a useful guide to assist students to effectively plan ahead and take responsibility for managing their own learning
Exams and formal assessments
We provide detailed information to students about what we expect from them throughout the year and how their work will be assessed. Students have a number of formal assessments throughout their schooling.
- National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) – reading, writing, language conventions (spelling, punctuation and grammar) and numeracy tests for students in Years 7 and 9. The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) holds the tests in May each year. Results and student reports are released in August.
- Validation of Assessment for Learning and Individual Development (VALID) – online diagnostic science assessments for students in Year 8. Some schools also choose to sit the tests in Year 10.
- HSC minimum standard – All students need to reach a minimum standard of functional literacy and numeracy to receive the HSC. Find out what skills are needed to meet the standard, how the tests work, and the resources available.
- The Record of School Achievement (RoSA) is awarded to eligible students who leave school before completing their Higher School Certificate. The RoSA records a student’s grades between the end of Year 10 and when they leave school.
- The Higher School Certificate (HSC) is an internationally recognised qualification awarded to students who successfully complete Years 11 and 12 in NSW.
Some students may apply for placement in a selective high school. For more information, visit selective high schools and opportunity classes.
Examination key dates
Forms
If illness or misadventure prevents a student from completing an assessment task on or before the due date the school must be advised immediately (before the due date if possible) and submitted to the Head Teacher on the day of returning to school.
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Learning
Find out about our approach to learning and supporting students to progress.
School information and expectations
Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School information and expectations for students.