Best Start Kindergarten Assessment

The Best Start Kindergarten Assessment is a state-wide assessment that helps teachers identify the literacy and numeracy skills which your child brings with them at the beginning of Kindergarten. The Best Start Kindergarten assessment has been conducted in NSW public schools since 2010 and helps teachers understand a student’s literacy and numeracy knowledge upon entry to school.

The assessment does not require students to prepare or study, so don’t be concerned if your child can’t answer all the questions. The Best Start Kindergarten Assessment provides teachers with information so they can plan effective teaching and learning programs.

Your child will complete the Best Start Kindergarten Assessment during their first five weeks of school in 2026.

Each student will spend some time with a Kindergarten teacher while they conduct the assessment. The assessment is conducted in an informal and relaxed manner with many students unaware that they are even being assessed during that time. 

Click here for the Best Start Kindergarten Assessment - Parent and carer information sheet

The assessment is conducted in line with existing school practices and builds upon teaching and learning programs that support students in the transition to school. 

The Best Start Kindergarten Assessment supports the NSW Government’s Literacy and Numeracy Strategy and is mapped to the National Literacy and Numeracy Learning Progressions.