Learning from Feedback: Helping Your Child Grow After Term 1 Assessments
As Term 1 comes to a close, your sons/daughters will begin receiving their results and feedback from the assessment tasks they’ve completed. This is an important moment—not just to check marks, but to open the door to deeper learning and reflection. At our college, teachers dedicate time and care to provide meaningful, individualised feedback. This feedback isn’t just about what went wrong—it’s about how students can improve, refine their skills, and become more confident learners.
Unfortunately, it’s easy for students to look at a grade, file the paper away, and move on. But feedback is most powerful when students pause, reflect, and act on it. That’s where parents can play a big role.
Here are five simple ways you can support your child in making the most of their assessment feedback:
- Ask to See It
Start by asking, “Can you show me your task and the teacher’s comments?” This shows that you value more than just the grade—it’s the learning journey that matters. - Focus on the Comments, Not Just the Mark
Say something like, “What does your teacher suggest you work on?” or “What did you do well this time?” Help your child identify strengths and specific areas for growth. - Encourage Reflection
Try asking, “If you were to do this task again, what would you change?” or “What strategies worked for you while studying or preparing?” These types of questions promote a growth mindset. - Prompt Action
Support your child in setting a goal based on the feedback. “What’s one thing you could do differently next time?” or “Do you need help from your teacher to understand a comment?” This step turns feedback into a forward-thinking plan. - Celebrate Effort and Progress
Regardless of the mark, acknowledge the effort that went into the task. Progress takes time, and recognising improvement, resilience, or risk-taking builds confidence.
Teachers are always happy to clarify feedback or support students in acting on it. If your child is unsure about a comment, encourage them to follow up with their teacher.
Together, we can help students not just complete assessments, but learn from them—turning feedback into a powerful tool for growth.
Mr Shaun Houghton
Leader of Teaching and Learning