The Importance of Your Daughter Sitting the General Achievement Test (GAT)

As parents, we play a crucial role in supporting our daughters’ education and ensuring they have every opportunity to excel academically. One important aspect of their Year 12 journey is sitting the General Achievement Test (GAT). In this article, we will discuss the significance of the GAT and why it is essential for all Units 3&4 students at St Catherine’s School to participate in this examination. 

Understanding the GAT

The General Achievement Test is a statewide assessment administered by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) in Australia. It is designed to evaluate students’ general knowledge, skills, and abilities across various subject areas. While the GAT does not contribute directly to subject study scores or the final ATAR, it plays a vital role in the moderation process and can provide a derived exam score if a student is unable to attend a final exam. 

Comprehensive Assessment

The GAT assesses two sections: Section A evaluates literacy and numeracy skills, while Section B focuses on critical and creative thinking abilities in Mathematics, Science, Technology, the Arts and Humanities. This revised format aims to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of students’ skills and competencies. 

Improved Preparation

To ensure our students feel adequately prepared, St Catherine’s School has taken the initiative to allocate time for a trial GAT each year. This practice examination allows your daughters to become familiar with the test structure, question types, and time constraints. By experiencing the trial GAT, they can enter the examination on June 15 with calm confidence. 

Developing Critical Thinking Skills

The GAT places an increased emphasis on critical and creative thinking abilities. These skills are highly valuable in today’s ever-changing world, as they enable individuals to analyse problems, think creatively, and make informed decisions. By participating in the GAT, your daughter will have the opportunity to demonstrate these skills, which will benefit her in both academic and real-life scenarios. Employees and Universities are now turning to the GAT as reassurance that applicants have satisfactory literacy and numeracy standards, along with these broader thinking skills not shown in student study scores alone.  

Equal Opportunity

The GAT is a mandatory examination for all Unit 3&4 students completing Year 12 subjects, including those studying languages externally. It ensures a fair and standardised assessment process across the State, allowing students to demonstrate their knowledge and abilities in a consistent manner. By participating in the GAT, your daughter will be on an equal footing with her peers, contributing to a fairer evaluation of their achievements. 

The General Achievement Test (GAT) holds great significance in the Year 12 academic journey, offering a comprehensive assessment of students’ knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities. By participating in the GAT, your daughter will have the opportunity to develop her skills, contribute to the moderation process, and showcase her capabilities on a statewide platform.  

The GAT Structure

If you or your daughter have any questions about the GAT please feel free to contact me to discuss further.