MEDIA RELEASE

14 May 2010

Union Commends Teacher Professionalism

NAPLAN Tests Concluded

“The IEUA congratulates the teaching profession for its hard work and dedication in delivering the NAPLAN tests this week” said Independent Education Union of Australia Federal Secretary Chris Watt.

Catholic and independent school teachers supported the NAPLAN tests because of the diagnostic value of the tests and the valuable information provided to schools that can inform the teaching and learning practices.

“Our members believe a strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy is fundamental to learning, and support the collection of data and its proper use to identify and assist students and schools most in need, said Mt Watt

“Whilst there will be incidents where correct procedures are not always followed, overwhelmingly teachers and principals acted professionally and with integrity.

“It will be appropriate to have a calm, timely and considered conversation about ways in which the delivery of the tests can be administered more effectively.

“It is critical that we do not lose the valuable diagnostic role and focus that the NAPLAN tests have been designed for and intended.”

Contact:

Chris Watt       Federal Secretary IEUA        

Ph        (02) 6273 3107             0419 259 143