Find out how NSW public schools are able to achieve and sustain levels of excellence in learning, teaching and leading through a simplified, coherent, explicitly focused and well-resourced School Excellence cycle and Strategic Improvement Plan (SIP).

School Excellence Policy

The School Excellence Policy provides direction for schools in planning, self-assessment, annual reflection and reporting, and is supported by implementation guidelines. The amended policy, released in Term 3, 2017, strengthens 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.

School Excellence approach

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 should ensure that they are using DoE's Standard Operating Environment (SOE). Schools that do not have the latest operating system and associated software are advised to use the department's software catalogue to bring their machine/s in line with DoE standards. Schools should contact their field services IT team or EDConnect for assistance.

School Excellence Framework

The school planning and reporting approach is underpinned by the School Excellence Framework (SEF). This can be found on the School Excellence Policy webpage, under 'related documents'.

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.