PISA and the Importance of Reading

Later this year, our students in Years 9 and 10 at St Francis will take part in the OECD’s Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA).

PISA is an international assessment under Australia's National Assessment Program (NAP), which helps monitor and report on student achievement consistently. It plays a crucial role in tracking our progress against educational goals set out in the Melbourne Declaration Goals for Young Australians and the Alice Springs (Mparntwe) Education Declaration.

Improving Australia’s PISA score is not just about a number. It reflects how well our education system is supporting student learning. More details about this assessment will be shared with students in the coming weeks.

PISA data provides valuable insights into student progress across different subjects and identifies factors that influence individual achievement. It’s a tool that helps shape future educational strategies across Australia.

Students involved will receive more details in the coming weeks.

One key finding from recent PISA tests underscores the significant role of regular reading in enhancing student learning outcomes.

THE POWER OF DAILY READING

As parents and carers, we all want to see our children thrive—not just academically, but as well-rounded, confident learners. While many factors influence student achievement—such as the quality of teaching and access to resources—there’s one simple habit that continues to make a remarkable difference: daily reading.

The most recent international PISA data, which assessed nearly 200,000 students across 32 countries, confirmed something we’ve long suspected: students who read regularly, read a variety of texts, and see reading as something valuable perform significantly better in literacy. In fact, a student’s level of reading engagement was found to be more influential than gender or family background. This is good news—it means that all students, regardless of their starting point, can make real gains through regular reading.

SO WHAT DOES THAT MEAN FOR US?

Students read regularly as part of their learning at school, but even more powerful is when reading becomes part of a student’s daily routine—at least 20 minutes a day. The benefits are far-reaching: improved vocabulary, stronger critical thinking skills, greater general knowledge, and better academic outcomes across all subjects.

Reading should never feel like a chore. It’s an enjoyable, enriching experience—and thanks to our College Library and digital platforms, students have access to a huge range of books and magazines to suit every interest.

One great resource available to all students is SORA, a digital reading app that provides access to eBooks, audiobooks, and popular magazines through our shared library network, the Australian Catholic Education Network (ACEN). It’s easy to access:

• Download the Sora App on iOS or Android
  
• Visit soraapp.com in a browser
  
• Or access SORA through the school library system (Oliver)
  
  

Whether your child prefers a traditional book they can carry around or a digital read on their laptop or tablet, the format doesn't matter—what matters is developing a lifelong habit of reading.

Let’s work together to make daily reading a shared priority. It’s a simple habit that opens up a world of possibilities.

YEAR 6 CANBERRA EXPERIENCE

Over the last couple of days, our Year 6 students travelled to Canberra for an overnight excursion that brought their learning in HSIE and Civics and Citizenship to life. The long bus journey gave students time to connect with one another and build excitement for the days ahead.

A key highlight was visiting Parliament House, where students saw firsthand how our government operates and explored the important role citizens play in a democratic society. The experience deepened their understanding and provided real-world context to their classroom learning.

At the time of this newsletter’s publication, students are still on their way home from Canberra. However, the trip has already proven to be not only educational, but also a valuable opportunity for students to bond, develop independence, and create lasting memories as a year group.

We sincerely thank Stage 3 Coordinator, Ms Sultana, for her outstanding organisation, and all the dedicated staff who generously gave their time and care to support the excursion.

YEAR 9 CAMP – NARRABEEN

Over the past three days and two nights, our Year 9 students have been away at camp in Narrabeen, taking part in a range of outdoor, hands-on activities designed to challenge, connect, and inspire.

From the start, students were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones—through team-building challenges, high ropes, crate stacking and group problem-solving tasks. Along the way, there was plenty of laughter, encouragement, and moments of quiet achievement. The camp has offered valuable time for students to strengthen friendships, grow in confidence, and come together as a year group.

At the time of this newsletter’s publication, students are still on their way home. We’re looking forward to hearing more stories and highlights once they return.

A heartfelt thank you to Mr Baker, Year 9 Coordinator, for his thoughtful planning and leadership. We also sincerely thank all the staff who attended and, most generously, gave up their time (and nights away from family) to ensure this experience was possible for our students.

A PRAYER TO END THE WEEK 

This week, as many of our students have taken part in camps and excursions—stepping outside their comfort zones, deepening friendships, and growing as young people—it’s fitting to pause and give thanks for these opportunities and for the people who make them possible.

We end this week with a simple prayer of gratitude and trust:

“A Prayer for Guidance and Gratitude”

Loving God,
Thank You for the opportunities this week has given us—
to learn, to grow, to support one another, and to be part of this community.
Help us to see Your presence in the everyday moments.
Guide our students as they return home safely,
and bless our staff and families for the care and commitment they show each day.
May we continue to walk in Your light,
with open hearts, willing hands, and grateful spirits.
–Amen.

Wishing all families a restful and safe weekend.

Mr Matthew McMahon