The largest improvements were reported for health and wellbeing factors, many being the most positive results since health and wellbeing questions were added to AtoSS in 2021.
AtoSS is aligned with the department’s Framework for Improving Student Outcomes 2.0. Survey data helps the department understand student perspectives of their school. It is used to help improve their schooling experience.
What 2024 results tell us
In 2024, more than 370,000 Victorian students in years 4 to 12 from 1,531 schools participated in AtoSS, representing 83.5% of eligible students.
The results showed a shift to positive trends across most survey factors, especially for secondary school students:
- 88% of survey factors improved for years 10 to 12
- 81% for years 7 to 9
- 57% for grades 4 to 6.
There were gains across the board for effective teaching practice and teacher-student relations.
This year saw significant improvements in all stages of schooling compared to 2023, with large improvements for health and wellbeing factors such as physical activity, resilience and life satisfaction. Secondary school students had the largest overall gains.
There were improvements across all year levels for emotional awareness and regulation, peer relationships and seeking help.
Young people turn to each other first for mental health support. To help students to support each other or know how or when to refer to a trusted adult, mental health literacy and peer-to-peer support training programs are included on the Schools Mental Health Fund and Menu.
More than 67% of students reported being in good or excellent physical health.
Active students are happy, healthy and resilient. The department’s Active Schools initiative gives schools the support and resources to build an active school and ensure students have the skills, confidence and motivation to be active in life.
Most students – 80% – report positive peer relationships.
More than 70% of students reported that their teachers have high expectations for success.
The majority of students did not experience bullying or racism at school in the term they were surveyed, but we know that this isn’t the experience for all students.
Find out more
For more information about AtoSS, please email school.surveys@education.vic.gov.au
