About SMART#
SMART (Student Monitoring, Assessment and Reporting Tool) is a new online assessment tool that schools will start using with your child in 2026.
The assessment will give you and the teachers clear, consistent information about how your child is progressing in reading, writing, maths, pānui, tuhituhi and pāngarau. SMART replaces an older tool, e‑asTTle.
SMART is not a high‑stakes test (like an exam). It’s more of a learning check‑in, helping parents and teachers understand what each student knows, what they can do and what they need next.
Not all schools use SMART yet. But those who do will use it twice-yearly in Years 3 to 10.
Using SMART#
SMART is designed to be simple and easy to use for students and teachers.
Most students complete SMART assessments online. They work through one question at a time and answer by selecting an option, dragging and dropping, or typing a short response.
SMART supports paper assessments for every year level. If a school or student prefers to use paper, the teachers can print the assessment, enter responses into SMART and receive the same reports and insights as they would from an online assessment.
The assessments are short. Most take around 30 to 45 minutes.
Why it matters#
SMART helps teachers identify what each learner can already do, what they need next and how best to support them.
The information also strengthens conversations between parents and teachers, because it can give a clearer picture of progress across the year.
SMART is one part of the system‑wide shift to more structured, consistent assessment, Phonics Checks, Hihira Weteoro, and in-line with a new Year 2 Maths Check.
When schools use SMART#
Schools use SMART twice a year in:
- Term 2: 20 April – 22 May
- Term 4: 12 October – 13 November.
Within each time frame, schools choose the timing that best suits their classes.
Schools also use SMART reports throughout the year to help plan teaching, track progress and share information with parents.
Finding out the results#
Your child’s teacher or principal will let you know how your child is progressing and what the SMART information shows about their learning.
Teachers use SMART to:
- understand how your child is progressing
- identify next learning steps
- plan teaching to meet your child’s needs.
The Ministry of Education also uses information to understand how well the education system is supporting learners across New Zealand.
Find out more about reporting and progress in the Guide to your child's reporting and progress.
