Greens urge caution on MySchool changes

The Australian Greens have warned changes to the MySchool website to be announced today risk distorting education priorities and will not provide a holistic representation of local schools.

Australian Greens spokesperson for  schools Senator Penny Wright said NAPLAN scores didn't represent school achievement and warned new comparative features would create unfair contrasts.

"Under this new plan, you'll be comparing apples with oranges and coming up with bananas," Senator Wright said.

"A good school can't be defined by NAPLAN scores because NAPLAN can't tell you anything about a school's community spirit, their inclusive values or passion for a well-rounded education.

"The MySchool site has already introduced a competitive element which is damaging student and teacher wellbeing and distorting our idea of what matters in education.

"This is only going to get worse if we stop comparing like with like. It will increase the hype around NAPLAN - upping the pressure on teachers and students.

"We can expect to see more teaching to the test, at the expense of subjects like music, sport and drama.

"NAPLAN tests such a small part of the curriculum and is at its best when used to help parents and teachers assist individual children."