Proposal to shift ages of students taking test

part in the test this year, below the national average.

Seven per cent of students were absent — the second worst absence rate behind only the NT — and a further 2.5 per cent of the Year 9 cohort was exempt.

Compared with last year, the students’ results fell in every subject area except writing.

However, Year 9 writing skills have fallen since 2011 at a statistically significant rate.

The worst decline in annual results for the age group was a fall of six points for grammar and punctuation.

However, Victoria’s primary school students are dominating the nation, with the latest figures showing them claiming top spot in seven out of 10 subject areas across Australia — up from four last year.

Grade 3 students also clinched the No.1 ranking from the ACT in numeracy and reading.

All students writing results faced an upturn following years of disappointing declines, while Grade 3 showed statistically significant achievements in the skill to the year before. Year 7s improved in key areas and took second place to the ACT in reading, writing and numeracy.

But the cohort fell below the national average in spelling, the only subject area where the state’s children fell under Australian standards.

The State Government’s overhaul plan, to alter the ages students sit the test, has been pitched to NSW and Queensland as part of the three-states NAPLAN review.

The idea will be presented to the Education Council of state and territory education ministers for consideration.

“I think there’s a lot to say that maybe we haven’t got the years right,” Education Minister James Merlino said.

“You talk to principals and most importantly, to parents — Year 9 is the most difficult cohort of students to engage in their education.”