Measuring What Matters: How We Assess for Growth at CCS

Reimagining assessment to reflect depth, progress, and purpose

What does it really mean to understand something?

At Canggu Community School, we believe that the most meaningful assessment isn’t about ranking or sorting — it’s about shining a light on the journey of learning. As educators, our role is not only to teach, but to help students recognize how far they’ve come, where they’re growing, and how they can stretch further.

This week, I’d like to share how CCS is reshaping its assessment philosophy to align with learning, respect, balance, and engagement — and why that matters more than ever.

You can learn more about our approach to student learning at ccsbali.com.

Rethinking the Role of Assessment

Traditional assessments often focus on recall, timing, or a one-off performance. But we know that a test score alone doesn’t fully capture a student’s understanding or potential. As author and educator Grant Wiggins said:

“The aim of assessment is not to rate students but to help them learn better.”

At CCS Bali, our aim is exactly that. We are working toward assessment that is:

• Authentic – rooted in real-world tasks, not just textbook drills
   
• Ongoing – reflecting growth over time, not just a single moment
   
• Personalized – allowing students to show what they know in multiple ways
   
• Reflective – building metacognition and ownership of the learning process
   

What This Looks Like at CCS

From Early Years through to IB Diploma, we are embedding practices that reflect the complexity and creativity of learning. Some key examples include:

• Student-led conferences, where learners present their growth stories to families
   
• Projects and personal inquiries, where students apply knowledge in meaningful contexts
   
• Process portfolios and formative feedback that track development and guide next steps
   
• Rubrics and reflection tools, designed to measure skills like collaboration, critical thinking, and global citizenship
   

These practices support learning over labeling, and shift the narrative from “How did I perform?” to “What have I learned, and where am I going next?”

Why It Aligns with Our Values

This evolving model of assessment is deeply rooted in our school values:

• Learning is no longer a finish line, but a dynamic, student-led process
   
• Respect is shown by valuing multiple perspectives and learning styles
   
• Balance is maintained by reducing unnecessary stress and focusing on progress, not perfection
   
• Engagement increases as students see themselves as active participants in shaping their success
   

This isn’t about lowering expectations — it’s about raising the bar in more meaningful ways.

Looking Ahead

As part of our strategic commitment to student-centered learning and wellbeing, CCS will continue to expand professional development, refine assessment practices, and partner with families in understanding how learning is measured — and celebrated.

Our goal is to prepare students not just for exams, but for life: to think deeply, reflect honestly, and grow with confidence.

Final Thoughts

Assessment at CCS is no longer just about checking the box — it’s about opening the door. A door to dialogue, self-awareness, and continuous growth.

Until next week — let’s keep measuring what matters most: curiosity, courage, and the journey of becoming.

Warmly,
Dr. Ben Voborsky
Head of School
Canggu Community School | www.ccsbali.com