Targeted student support, evidence-informed professional learning and collaboration are driving exceptional 2026 NAPLAN results at St Joseph's Catholic Primary School Rockdale. 

St Joseph's Rockdale recorded standout gains in the top achievement band for both writing and numeracy in 2026: 

  • Year 5 writing proficiency reached 100% in 2026, up from 91% in 2024, with the proportion Exceeding rising 16 points to 33%. 
  • Numeracy Exceeding rose 6 points, from 19% to 24%, over the same period. 

Year 3 students in 2026 recorded higher rates of proficiency than Year 3 students in 2025 in Reading (+18%) and Grammar & Punctuation (24%). 

Year 5 students in 2026 recorded higher rates of proficiency than Year 5 students in 2025 across all five NAPLAN domains, with particularly strong increases in: 

  • Reading +15.21%  
  • Numeracy: +11.21% 
  • Grammar & Punctuation: +5% 
  • Writing: +21.88% 

"These results reflect the strong culture of learning we've built at this school, grounded in high expectations, equity and a genuine belief that every student can thrive. We're proud that this success sits alongside our commitment to educating the whole child academically, socially and personally," said Rachelle Dopson, Principal at St Joseph's Rockdale. 

Success across Sydney Catholic Schools  

Kevin Carragher, Sydney Catholic Schools Director of Education and Research, said the system's results reflected a consistent, evidence-informed approach to teaching and learning.   

"Our teachers are drawing on the science of learning through explicit instruction, clear modelling, regular review and carefully tailored support. These practices are helping students build strong foundations, deepen their understanding and grow in confidence across a range of learning areas," he said.   

"These figures represent thousands of individual students strengthening the knowledge, skills and confidence they need for future learning," Mr Carragher said.