This decision has been taken in response to the current social distancing measures in place to slow the spread of COVID-19.

More than 12,000 applications are received each year for opportunity class placements commencing at the start of Year 5 the following school year. There are 76 public schools in NSW with opportunity classes and in 2021 Aurora College will offer a virtual OC program to students in regional areas.

As part of the application process, eligible students are required to sit a test in a supervised environment. Social distancing guidelines currently in place make it difficult to implement a large-scale assessment.

The department is committed to the continued education of all students across NSW, including advanced learning programs for high potential and gifted students.

Year 5 students will be placed in opportunity classes in 2021 with minimal disruption to schools and families. The opportunity class placement process will still go ahead in 2020.

The department continues to work closely with NSW Health to ensure people have access to the latest advice on how to keep staff, children, students and community safe.

Revised dates for applications and tests will be announced as soon as they are confirmed. We ask parents to please continue to monitor the opportunity classes page.