Opportunity Classes

At Balmain Public School, we have two Opportunity Classes (OC). Students in our Year 5 and 6 OC cohort work collaboratively across our flexible learning space, the 'Treehouse'. 

Guided by the NSW Department of Education's High Potential and Gifted Education Policy, we provide students with systematic instruction to nurture their potential and gifts into talent. Our explicit teaching experiences are structured according to the needs of gifted students, using a variety of differentiation and grouping strategies. 

Students also participate in Project-Based Learning programs, that look to embedding meaningful cross-curriculum opportunities. These 'low floor, high ceiling' open-ended learning activities are specifically designed to facilitate a dynamic and collaborative learning environment, in which students are engaged and encouraged to integrate their personal interests and strengths within their learning.

Starting Balmain OC in 2022?

Information regarding OC placement results for our 2022 Year 5 cohort will be advised mid-January, by the NSW Department of Education's High Performing Students team.

If you receive and accept an offer to our school, we will send you a welcome email with frequently asked questions, at the end of January (before Term 1 begins).

Watch the video below, for a virtual tour of the 'Treehouse' space and to hear OC students sharing their learning and experiences at Balmain.