Getting into an Opportunity Class (OC) can help bright and curious Year 5 and 6 students learn with others at a similar level. This simple guide explains how OC works, how to apply, what the test involves, and tips for choosing the best class for your child.
What Are Opportunity Classes?
Opportunity Classes are special two-year programs for Years 5 and 6, designed for students who learn faster than usual. Parents apply when their child is finishing Year 3 or starting Year 4 for entry into Year 5. These programs allow students to explore subjects more thoroughly and keep them engaged with classmates who have comparable skills.
Who Can Apply and When?
Families can apply for Year 5 placement in OC during the annual application window, usually from November through February. Since Opportunity Classes run only for Years 5 and 6, there is no separate entry into Year 6 alone. Applications are open statewide, so you may list up to four OC schools in order of preference—even those outside your local area—but only choose schools your child would genuinely attend. The order matters because placement offers depend on test results and choices, and turning down an offer might mean missing out on others.
Places Available and School Choices
There are about 1,840 Year 5 OC spots across NSW. When applying, parents can list up to four schools in order of preference. The order is important because offers depend on each student’s test score and how many places each school has. It’s also acceptable to choose fewer than four if you want to focus only on schools that suit your child’s needs and interests.
Types and Locations of Opportunity Classes
Once a student secures a place in an Opportunity Class, they generally move from their current primary school to attend the OC school full-time for Years 5 and 6.
- Total OC Schools in NSW: Across NSW, there are 89 schools offering full-time OC classes:
- Metropolitan Sydney: 57 schools have dedicated OC classes.
- Rural and Regional Centres: 31 schools provide OC streams outside Sydney.
- Aurora College: Provides online OC lessons in science, technology, and mathematics for rural and remote students. Participants remain enrolled at their local host school while joining virtual classes and attend two residential camps each year for practical learning and social interaction.
The OC Placement Test
Admission to an Opportunity Class depends on how well a student does in a computer-based placement test. The test includes three parts:
- Reading: Students read different kinds of passages—stories, factual writings, poems, or reports—and answer questions to show they understand and can interpret the text.
- Mathematical Reasoning: Based on Year 4 maths topics, students solve problems without using a calculator, demonstrating their ability to apply concepts in new ways.
- Thinking Skills: This section tests logical and critical thinking with questions that do not require any special prior knowledge. It measures how well students can analyse information and solve puzzles.
The test is taken at approved centres on computers. Practice materials and details about how the test works are available through official NSW Education resources to help students feel familiar with the format and build confidence.
Preparing for the OC Test
Effective preparation goes beyond last-minute study; it focuses on building strong foundations over time. The TestRoom Practice Course and Mock Tests supports this organic learning approach by offering:
- Topic-Wise Questions at Multiple Levels: For each OC subject area—reading, maths reasoning, and thinking skills—students can practice questions organised from basic to advanced levels, helping them gradually strengthen core skills.
- Mock Tests: Simulated tests mirror the actual OC format, allowing students to experience timed conditions and develop test-taking stamina and confidence.
- Review and Feedback: After attempting questions, students can review their answers with detailed explanations and tips, reinforcing understanding and correcting misconceptions.
- Performance Tracking: Progress reports highlight areas of strength and those needing more attention, guiding focused revision without unnecessary pressure.
- Flexible, Ongoing Practice: Accessible anytime online, the course encourages regular, paced practice rather than intensive last-term cramming, helping students internalise concepts naturally.
By integrating structured practice, mock exams, and clear feedback, the TestRoom Practice Course helps students prepare steadily and confidently for the OC placement test without reliance on extra tutoring.
Benefits of Opportunity Classes
Joining an OC means students work alongside others who share their love of learning. Teachers can tailor lessons, so topics move faster and in more depth. Children also benefit by talking through ideas with classmates who think similarly. Plus, extra activities add fun and help build new skills during the two-year program.
Choosing the Right OC School
When choosing which OC schools to list, think about what your child enjoys and where they learn best, how the commute and daily schedule will fit into family routines, and the school’s culture and support services by exploring websites, attending open days, and gathering feedback from other families. Involve your child in the discussion so you understand which environment excites and comforts them most.
After OC: Planning for Selective High School
Completing two years in an OC does not automatically secure a place in a selective high school. Families need to apply separately for Year 7 selective placement when the child is in Year 5 and again prepare for the selective test in Year 6.
Final Thoughts
Opportunity Classes give students a great chance to learn in a challenging environment during Years 5 and 6. When parents understand how applications work, what to expect in the test, and how to choose the best school, they can support their child confidently.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for general guidance and educational purposes only. While we aim to keep content accurate and up to date, we recommend referring to the official NSW Department of Education website for the latest updates, policies, and decisions regarding selective and opportunity class placements. TestRoom is an independent platform and is not affiliated with the NSW Department of Education.
Ansterra TestRoom Team
