The literacy and numeracy tests, known as LAN or NAPLAN, have been around for a decade and provide a useful tool for parents, teachers and schools in addressing individual deficiencies or systemic problems within schools.

Their value as a tool of national comparison, though, must be questioned. A school such as KICE must take all-comers, there are few alternatives. Many isolated communities find themselves in a similar situation.

What value is there in comparing your local school with, for example, a private school which can choose to accept only high-achievers, where parents are paying sometimes substantial amounts in private fees, above what the government provides for education?

It is easy to point the finger at schools and teachers but parents must remember that education also begins and continues at home, usually in a less formal but no less important way. There are many opportunities for practising literacy and numeracy skills in everyday life.

Parents must ask if they are taking full advantage of the support and programs offered by teachers and schools. Are they attending parent education evenings, parent-teacher interviews and participating in their child’s learning?

The LAN tests are only one part of the jigsaw that makes up a child’s education. They are too narrow to give a complete picture of a child’s ability or a school’s performance.

If anything, they should help to unite a community in supporting its teachers and schools, both of which are under increasing pressure and whose intention it is to give the best education possible.