Blog post published 29 July 2026
The NSW Opportunity Class Placement Test is one of the significant academic milestones in a primary school student’s journey – and the right preparation makes all the difference.
Our OC Preparation Program is designed specifically for bright and motivated Year 3 students who are ready to be challenged beyond the standard curriculum. We cover every component of the OC exam.
Our program goes beyond content. Students develop strategic exam techniques, time management skills, and the confidence to perform under pressure – taught by specialist teachers who understand exactly what OC examiners are looking for.
How does the program work?
Lessons are held once a week for two hours, starting in Term 4 and finishing in Term 1 in time for the Opportunity Class Placement Test at the beginning of May.
Students are graded based on their performance in the entry test to assist teachers in optimising the learning for each student. Students may change class after a regrading test which takes place in lesson 10 of the program.
Classes are taught by experienced, university-qualified teachers who offer problem-solving strategies and deep knowledge of the content and test format.
Computer-based practice and testing is incorporated into The Swot Shop program.
What do students experience during the lessons?
✔ Reading/comprehension – all aspects of the OC test will be taught to students. This includes poems, main idea paragraphs, cloze passages, meaning of words and drawing conclusions.
✔ Maths reasoning – all Maths questions will require problem solving and have several stages. Teachers break down various aspects of the problem solving and establish numerical relationships.
✔ Thinking skills – this is possibly the most difficult area for students. Teachers teach the various types of questions in smaller sections. Aspects taught will be verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, sequences, cardinal points, debates and arguments.
✔ Testing – most weeks, students will undergo a test. The test papers are marked each week, and scores are collated and ranked. Students receive their mark, and are advised of the highest mark, the lowest mark and their rank within their Swot Shop cohort.
✔ Trial exam – there will also be a trial exam at the end of Term 1. Here students will sit a test similar to the final exam.
✔ Students will experience exercises in speed and accuracy, time management and concentration during the program.
✔ The Swot Shop also offers an OC holiday review program (optional) after Term 1, as final preparation ahead of the 2027 Opportunity Class Placement Test.
Students in the program will also have access to our experienced Education Team who can provide guidance and advice along the way to both students and parents.
Entry testing for our OC Preparation Program is now open. Program begins in Term 4.
Places are limited and entry is competitive – not all applicants are admitted.
Does your child have what it takes?
Join us on the path to excellence
Discover the difference of the Swot Shop approach. While we provide high-quality tuition and coaching, we’re far more than just a coaching centre. With our commitment to critical thinking, personalised learning and academic excellence, we aim to enrich your your child’s education. Learn more about how we can contribute to your child’s bright future.
