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Opportunities for Students to Excel in Rural and Remote NSW
Opportunities for Students to Excel in Rural and Remote NSW
Parents of high potential and gifted students in rural and remote areas of NSW are encouraged to apply now for placement in online opportunity classes (OC) or selective high school classes for the 2026 academic year, with the application deadline fast approaching on 21 February 2025.
Who Can Apply?
- Opportunity Classes (OC): For students currently in Year 4 in 2025.
- Selective High School Classes: For students currently in Year 6 in 2025.
Aurora College: A Virtual Learning Experience
Run by the NSW Department of Education, Aurora College delivers online classes to students at over 700 host public schools across rural and regional NSW. The program is designed to minimise disruption to students’ lives while offering them advanced educational opportunities.
Key Features:
- Online Classes: High-quality education delivered virtually at students’ local schools.
- Residential Camps: Two camps each year, providing opportunities for students to meet classmates, collaborate in hands-on lessons, and attend specialist excursions.
- Equity Placement Model: Ensures fair access for students from under-represented groups, including those from low socio-educational backgrounds, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities, rural and remote locations, and children with disabilities.
Equity Placement Model
Under the Equity Placement Model, 20% of all OC and selective school places are reserved for high potential and gifted students from under-represented groups.
- Students may qualify if their test performance is within 10% of the general first-round offer threshold for their desired school.
- More details are available on the Fair Access webpage.
Placement Tests
Once an application is submitted, students will be invited to take the Opportunity Class or Selective High School Placement Test between 2 and 4 May 2025. This year, the placement tests will shift from paper-based to computer-based formats.
How to Apply
Parents can view the list of Aurora College host schools and submit applications through the NSW Department of Education’s Selective High Schools and Opportunity Classes website.
Supporting Every Student to Thrive
Dr. Paul Wood, Executive Director of Educational Standards, NSW Department of Education, highlighted the program’s impact:
“Regardless of geography or background, we are committed to providing every child in NSW with access to an environment that supports them to reach their full potential.
“Aurora College enables students to remain in their local communities while benefiting from advanced educational opportunities. This minimises disruption to their and their families’ lives, allowing them to focus fully on their studies.”
For more information and to apply, visit the Department of Education website.
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