Opportunity Class at Biraban Public School

For gifted and high-potential learners in Years 5 and 6

What is an Opportunity Class (OC)?

Opportunity Classes cater for  academically gifted and high-potential students  in Years 5 and 6 who require  intellectual stimulation  and  enriched learning experiences  beyond the regular classroom. Students are selected through a competitive entry process and join a dynamic, challenging learning environment designed to extend their thinking, creativity and collaboration skills.

Why Choose the Biraban OC?

• Future-focused learning: Real-world problem-solving, design thinking and collaborative projects that build 21st-century skills.

• Individual Passion Projects: Deep inquiry into personal interests, culminating in creative student-designed presentations.

• STEM-rich curriculum: Robotics, coding, engineering challenges and a focus on rich mathematical thinking and problem solving.

• Creative and critical thinking: Socratic dialogue, ethical dilemmas and philosophical inquiry embedded in daily learning.

• Connection and belonging: A positive, nurturing space for like-minded learners to thrive socially and emotionally.

• Strong links and connections: Our class has multiple opportunities to connect with other opportunity classes and selective high schools.

What Makes the Biraban OC Unique?

• Expert teachers: Led by Miss Ryan and Mr Shearman, who specialise in gifted education and future-focused teaching.

• Flexible learning space: A modern room with breakout zones and 1-1 digital collaboration tools.

• Extension opportunities: Enrichment days, Master classes, HPGE excursions and Camps, Public Speaking, Debating, Maths Olympiad, National competitions and Aboriginal cultural programs.

• Wellbeing and self-direction: Students build independence, reflection skills and ownership over their learning.

🗣 What Our Students Say

“You will be challenged in your strengths and helped with your weaknesses, everyone in the class is here to learn.”
– Byron Darke, Year 6 student

"No matter how hard you push, there is always something bigger, something new to strive towards and challenge yourself with."
– Ike Brown, Year 5 student

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 : 4959 1902

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:

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.

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.