Opportunity class (OC)
Our school has a non-selective stream and an opportunity classes. Opportunity classes are for high potential and gifted students in Year 5 and 6. Parents apply when students are at the end Year 3 or the beginning of Year 4 for placement in Year 5 for a 2-year program (Year 5 to 6). Parents cannot apply for Year 6 placement only.
At Earlwood Public School we facilitate two Opportunity Classes that are an integral part of our school community. Our aim is to provide students with a rich and diverse range of learning experiences to assist students reach their full potential.
Celebrating 30 years of OC
We’re excited to welcome your family to our school community! To begin your journey, simply complete our online application form.
Opportunity class (OC)
Opportunity Classes are special classes for high-achieving students in Years 5 and 6. These classes provide a supportive and challenging environment that helps students develop their academic skills and reach their full potential. Admission to Opportunity Classes is competitive, and students are selected based on their performance in a placement test. This test assesses skills in areas such as reading, writing, mathematics, and general ability.
Details on how to apply, important dates for application and testing, and how to help prepare your child, please visit the NSW Department of Education website.
Student opportunities and activities
Students in Opportunity Classes benefit from the High potential and gifted education (HPGE) program, which offers a variety of enriching opportunities beyond the standard curriculum. These include advanced academic challenges, creative arts, leadership opportunities, and extracurricular activities designed to nurture students’ talents and interests.
OC transition and information session
Our transition and parent information session is designed to support our new Year 5 Opportunity Class students by giving them the chance to meet teachers and classmates and explore classrooms and playgrounds with current OC students.
During Term 4, a parents and carers information session is held at Earlwood Public School. This session covers topics such as academic opportunities, social support, daily routines, before and after school care facilities, the school communication app, and information about ESPA (our parent association). It also offers guidance on how parents can best support their child’s learning and wellbeing throughout the OC years. Additionally, parents have the opportunity to ask questions and connect with staff and other families. If you require an interpreter, please let us know.
Wellbeing
We understand that Opportunity Class students face unique challenges as they balance academic demands with personal growth. Our wellbeing programs are designed to support students’ mental, emotional, and social health. Through wellbeing activities, we help all our students manage stress, build resilience and maintain a positive mindset. Creating a supportive and caring environment is key to helping students thrive both in and out of the classroom.
Selective high schools
Selective high schools are for high potential and gifted students in Years 7 to 12. For Year 7 entry, parents apply when their child is at the end of Year 5 or the beginning of Year 6. These programs aim to nurture talented students through a competitive placement process based on academic testing. Admission is based on a competitive academic placement process. Families interested in these programs can find detailed information about eligibility, application timelines, and preparation tips on the NSW Department of Education website.
How to apply for entry into our opportunity classes
Unlike NSW public schools, there are no intake areas for opportunity classes. Enrolment is by application only. You can apply to up to 4 schools.
Apply online
Steps:
- Visit Selective high school and opportunity class placement
- Register to start your application.
- Verify your email address
- Log in
- Complete all sections of the application form
- Submit the application form
- Student sits the placement test
- 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.
How to enrol in our non-selective stream
Every child has the right to access quality public education in their local community. If you live in our local intake area, start your journey to join our vibrant school community today. Follow these key steps:
- Check your eligibility: use School Finder to confirm if your address is within our local intake area.
- Read: other enrolment details for our school.
- Apply online: complete our online enrolment application.
Visit NSW Department of Education for more information on enrolling in NSW public schools. This includes:
- local intake areas
- non-local enrolments
- additional learning needs
- starting or transitioning to school
- moving schools
- other ways to enrol.
Other enrolment details for our school
Our school might have extra steps for enrolment. Our office staff are here to help, so contact us if you have any questions.
School contributions
In NSW public schools, all financial contributions are voluntary. Every student has full access to the curriculum, regardless of whether contributions are made.
For more information, see Voluntary school contributions on the Department of Education's website.
Download our enrolment form
If you don’t want to enrol online, you can download and fill out the enrolment form. Then hand it in at our school's front office.
Visit us before you enrol
Starting a new school is a big step. We're here to help make the transition a smooth and positive experience for every student and their family.
We may offer a school tour, open day, information session or orientation program. These events help you and your child feel prepared for starting school.
Meet our friendly staff, explore our school facilities, and see what makes our school a great place to learn.
Contact us to find out what’s available and how we can support you before your child starts at our school.
Does your child need extra support?
Our learning and support team is here to help. Visit Additional learning support before you complete the enrolment form to learn how we can best support your child.
Why choose us?
Find out what makes our school special and why families choose us.
Travel to our school
Learn about local transport options and how to get here safely.