As education systems evolve, parents must stay informed about how their children are assessed and how this is reflected in their report cards
“Understanding the assessment criteria can help parents support their children’s learning journey more effectively,” Success Tutoring founder and CEO, Michael Black said.
“A student’s report card is not just a summary of grades, it reflects their learning progress, strengths and areas for improvement. Understanding how these assessments work allows parents to take an active role in their child’s education.”
Founded by Michael Black, a highly revered entrepreneur and business leader, Success Tutoring is achieving unparalleled growth with new centres opening across Australia every year. The Success TutoringSuccess Tutoring team is seeing many children not only turn their grades and enjoyment of school around, but also witnessing kids feeling better about themselves and experiencing an uplift in their whole demeanor.
Black is encouraging parents to be aware of how assessments shape student performance and academic growth. He is also warning that all report cards are not equal. They vary across Australia and many parents find them confusing.
Why it is important to understand your child’s report card
“Schools use a range of assessment methods, including tests, projects and class participation, to evaluate students. Each school may have a unique grading structure, making it essential for parents to understand what each grade represents,” Black said.
“If you have any concerns regarding the way in which your child’s school uses report cards, or you are not sure about the content of a report card, it is essential to ask questions. Report cards are a critical element of your child’s educational progress.”
Feedback and improvement
“Report cards provide insights beyond grades, offering valuable feedback on how students can improve,” Black said.
“This is very important to understand as the card outlines where a child needs to improve in order to enhance their learning journey and educational outcomes.”
Grading system
“In Australia, your child’s report card will usually contain a five-point letter grading system. The most common grading system is from A to E, however independent schools and different states may have a varied approach,” Black said.
“The common grade scales summarise the standard or quality of achievement associated with different grades or levels. The scales describe the knowledge, understanding and skills that students working at each grade typically demonstrate.
“If you don’t understand your child’s report card, ask the teacher. Bring it in with you to see us and we will help you work through it and identify how we can help by developing a customised learning program to support their schooling.
“If English is not your first language, it is even more important for you to seek help to ensure you fully understand the content of your child’s report card.”
What questions should a parent ask about a report card
- If grades are used: How are grades calculated? Are they an average of performance across tasks? Which tasks were included?
- Are grades based on meeting curriculum outcomes (criterion-referenced) or compared to peers (norm-referenced)?
- Should the grade be interpreted as above, at, or below the expected standard?
- If performance labels are used:
- What constitutes “developing,” “above expectations,” or “satisfactory”?
- Can performance descriptors be translated into A to E grades, and if not, why?
- If descriptive comments are used:
- Does “has” or “can” mean the student is at, above, or below the expected level?
- What skills have not been demonstrated and were they not assessed or not achieved?
- Are improvement areas general or specific next steps for learning?
- Ask about progress:
- Is my child making expected progress? What evidence supports this?
- How has their knowledge and skills improved over time?
- Is my child being appropriately challenged to reach their potential?
How parents can support their child’s learning
Black provides tips for parents on how to become more involved in the learning journey.
- Ask questions: Speak with teachers to understand how your child is being assessed.
- Review report cards together: Discuss strengths and areas for improvement with your child.
- Encourage a growth mindset: Focus on learning progress rather than just grades.
- Seek additional support: If needed, consider tutoring or extra help to enhance learning outcomes.
About Success Tutoring
Founded by Michael Black in 2017, Success Tutoring is Australia’s fastest growing education centre with numerous locations and a further 80 cites planned by 2026.
The company offers weekly tutoring sessions in English and math for students aged five to 17, with a school readiness program for kids even younger, and selective school exam preparation tutoring also available. The Success Tutoring Model not only empowers students to work at their own pace towards progress but also finds success in the social aspect of students coming together and working as a community of students to find motivation, inspiration and a lifelong love of learning.
