Opportunity class (Years 5-6)

Ermington Public School proudly offers Opportunity Classes (OC) for academically gifted students in Years 5 and 6. Placement in these classes is based on merit through the Department of Education’s selective placement process. The program provides an engaging and challenging learning environment designed to extend students’ thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

While OC students are encouraged to excel academically, they are also supported to feel part of the wider school community. We place strong emphasis on helping students build friendships, collaborate across classes, and participate fully in school life, ensuring they thrive in both their learning and their sense of belonging.

Our caring teachers nurture each student to reach their potential, both academically and personally, as confident, motivated learners.

Opportunity classes are one of the ways that the department supports high potential and gifted students.

Benefits of attending our opportunity class

• Students learn with classmates who have similar academic ability.

• Teachers use special teaching methods to move students through the curriculum at a faster pace and in more depth.

• Students tell us they love learning with other like-minded students.

Opportunity class students also take part in our regular extra-curricular activities like sports, arts, music and clubs.

You can apply to our opportunity class even if our school is outside your local enrolment area.

Is an opportunity class the right fit for my child?

Talk with your child about this option. Together, look over the information on our website and in the Student Resource Hub.

Your child might have high intellectual potential if they:

• enjoy learning

• are intensely curious

• display a good memory

• ask complex questions

• enjoy learning new and often complex ideas or skills

• require fewer repetitions when learning new things

• are creative

• become intensely focused in their area of interest or passion.

Please note that not all gifted students will show all of these traits. This may be due to disability, disadvantage or lack of opportunity.

Learn more about the department’s High Potential and Gifted Education Policy.

How to apply for entry into our Opportunity Class

Students are selected into the OC through the Opportunity Class Placement Test, held each year for Year 4 students. This test is coordinated by the NSW Department of Education’s Selective High School and OC Unit.

For key dates and information on how to apply, visit the Department's OC Placement site.

To learn more or arrange a visit, please contact our school office.

Apply online

Steps:

1. Visit Selective high school and opportunity class placement
2. Register to start your application.
3. Verify your email address
4. Log in
5. Complete all sections of the application form
6. Submit the application form
7. Student sits the placement test
8. Family is advised of the outcome.

You must submit a separate application form for each school and list the schools in the same order of preference.

Late applications

The application period cannot be extended. Make sure you submit your application before the closing date. For more information, check key dates.

More information

For more information about opportunity classes visit Selective high schools and opportunity classes.