Find out how NSW public schools achieve and sustain excellence in learning, teaching and leading through a coherent, explicitly focused and well-resourced School Excellence cycle and School Excellence Plan (SEP).

School Excellence Policy

The School Excellence Policy provides direction for schools in planning, self-assessment, annual reflection and reporting, and is supported by implementation procedures. The policy and procedures, outline the roles and responsibilities of principals and Directors, Educational Leadership in the pursuit of School Excellence and incorporates the use of School Planning and Reporting Online (SPaRO) into the requirements.

The approach to School Excellence is built on a single, integrated school plan and annual report that incorporates a strong self-assessment process.

In addition, schools may engage in a school development review (SDR) which is conducted in line with the School Excellence Procedure.

School Planning and Reporting Online (SPaRO)

Schools are supported to meet the requirements of the School Excellence cycle through the use of the School Planning and Reporting Online (SPaRO) platform. This platform is continually updated to support schools in their planning while minimising associated workload.

School Excellence Framework

The school planning and reporting approach is underpinned by the School Excellence Framework (SEF).

The SEF supports all NSW public schools in their pursuit of excellence by providing a clear description of quality practice across the key domains of education – learning, teaching and leading – to inform and guide decision-making by principals.

The SEF is evidence-based and identifies explicit school practices that directly relate to continuous, school-wide improvement and better student outcomes.