Class of 2019 sit last ever QCS Test

Education Minister Grace Grace has wished Queensland’s 23,000 Year 12 students the best of luck in preparation for the Queensland Core Skills (QCS) Test this week.

Ms Grace said students will complete four test papers across Tuesday 3 and Wednesday 4 September.

“I encourage all year 12 students to relax and try their best,” Ms Grace said.

“QCS is used to calculate Overall Positions (OPs) and Field Positions (FPs) for tertiary entrance.

“Students should be proud of their efforts and have confidence in what they’ve learnt.

“A big thanks must go to all our Queensland teachers, staff and parents for supporting students in the lead up to the test.”

Ms Grace said this year’s tests mark the end of an era for QCS testing which started in 1992.

“Our Year 12 students are sitting the last ever QCS test before the introduction of a new senior assessment and tertiary admission system in 2020,” she said.

“Eligible Queensland students will receive an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) instead of an OP from next year.

“ATAR will ensure results are as inclusive and fair for students as possible. Rankings will be generated directly from senior subject results.

“It is used in other states and territories and will be administered by the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC).”

Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) CEO Chris Rider said QCS had served the state well.

“The QCS Test and current school-based assessment system continue to be fair and reliable. That’s an important message for Year 12 students and their families,” Mr Rider said.

“No matter what OP a student receives, they should know that the real measure of success is whether they achieved to the best of their ability.

“I hope that students have enjoyed their schooling and it has set them up for their preferred post school pathway—whether that’s work, TAFE or university.”

For more information visit www.qtac.edu.au and www.qcaa.qld.edu.au.

Media contact: Scott Chandler- 0439 578 472