Events: AssessFest
AssessFest: Shaping the Future of Assessment and Pathways
AssessFest is an annual flagship event hosted by University of Melbourne Melbourne Metrics as part of the Matching for Success initiative. It brings together educators, school and system leaders, researchers, policy makers, tertiary admissions representatives and students to collaborate on reimagining how learning is assessed, recognised and used to support meaningful pathways beyond school. The event focuses on next-generation approaches that go beyond traditional exams to capture the complex competencies and capabilities learners need to thrive in higher education and life.
Why AssessFest?
For schools
Explore new approaches to assessment and learner profiles
For universities
Rethink admissions and student success
For policy and research
Contribute to national reform conversations
What Happens at AssessFest?
- Inspiring Keynotes and Panels — Thought leaders in education, assessment innovation and tertiary pathways share research, insights and emerging practice.
- Interactive Workshops and Breakouts — Sessions explore topics such as competency-based assessment, learner profiling, alternative credentials, and cross-sector partnerships between schools and universities.
- Student Voices — Learners share how broader measures of skills and capabilities have shaped their understanding of readiness and direction for future study or career pathways.
- Networking and Collaboration — AssessFest fosters partnerships and practical connections across sectors to support innovation in assessment and transition systems.
- School Lightning Showcases — School leaders share their journeys to elevate competency-based learning and assessment design.
Featured content
What if we measured what truly matters? AssessFest champions evidence of complex, transferable competencies — offering a richer picture of student learning and a more meaningful predictor of future success than academic scores alone.
2025 AssessFest Highlights
AssessFest: Friday 6 November 2026
If you are working on, or curious about, competency-based assessment, new credentials, or more equitable and meaningful pathways for learners, AssessFest is designed for you.