Brain science could help break Queensland’s NAPLAN spiral
CQUniversity expert says neuroscience-backed strategies offer real answers to the State’s learning slump.
Queensland’s 2025 NAPLAN results paint a concerning picture, but the solution may lie between the ears.
With student performance slipping or stagnating across key year levels, and Year 3 students ranked second-worst nationally in numeracy, Professor Ken Purnell said it’s time to rethink how we approach learning – starting with the brain.
“Students aren’t just statistics – they are real people, and what’s happening inside their brains matters,” Professor Purnell said.
“If we want real results for real students, we need to empower teachers to reteach, reinforce memory, and spark motivation and confidence.
“The science of learning has shown us what works and now it’s time to apply it.”
He said Queensland’s NAPLAN report card says it has the potential to do a lot better.
NAPLAN data shows Year 3 and 5 results declined across multiple areas, with Year 3 numeracy among the lowest nationally.
In fact, it shows 11.8 percent of students require additional support.
Writing results also remain a key concern, particularly in Years 7 and 9, continuing a national trend of decline.
Despite participation rates reaching their highest since 2019 (over 90 percent), academic progress has not followed suit.
“This isn’t just about academic performance – it’s about opportunity,” Professor Purnell said.
“Every child deserves a strong start, and that begins with a focus on the brain: how we learn, how we remember, and how we grow confidence.”
Professor Purnell points to a primary school that lifted Year 5 maths scores by 25 percentage points, using: mixed-ability classes, where students learn together rather than being grouped by levels; and flipped learning, with students introduced to new concepts at home, then applying them in class with teacher support.
“These are simple changes, but they’re grounded in how the brain learns best,” he said.
To turn the tide, Professor Purnell suggests Queensland could adopt a Year 2 ‘catch-up check’ to identify and support students early; decluttering the curriculum, as NSW has begun, to reduce cognitive overload; making NAPLAN compulsory across all school sectors to get clearer, more consistent data; and investing in programs that build confidence, memory and motivation, not just test skills.
“The answer isn’t more pressure – it’s smarter teaching informed by science,” he said.
Professor Purnell’s bottom line: “Queensland’s future depends on today’s learners. Let’s give our teachers the time, tools and trust to do what they do best – ignite learning that lasts.”
