This week close to 235,000 Queensland school students will take part in NAPLAN tests, Education Minister Kate Jones said today.

Ms Jones said language conventions and writing tests would be held on Tuesday, reading on Wednesdayand numeracy on Thursday.

“Since 2008, NAPLAN has provided a valuable snapshot of how students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 are performing in important aspects of literacy and numeracy,” she said.

“Results help schools identify areas that need improvement, review teaching methods and implement programs to boost student outcomes.

“Last year, Queensland students recorded their best ever results on NAPLAN which is a positive reflection on the hard work that goes on in schools every day.”

Ms Jones said students should be confident that their efforts in the classroom have prepared them well for the tests.

“I know our teachers and young people have a genuine commitment to learning,” she said.

“Alongside regular report cards and in-class assessments, NAPLAN complements the work teachers undertake in the classroom.

“My advice to students is to approach it just like any other test day at school – they should stay calm and try their best.

“Parents should also encourage their children to get plenty of rest the night before each test and a good, healthy breakfast.”

The Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority will provide students’ NAPLAN reports to schools by August for distribution to parents.

For more information on the National Assessment Program — Literacy and Numeracy, please visit:www.naplan.edu.au