How do you choose the best secondary school to set your child up for future success?
As a parent, choosing the best secondary school is an important decision. Your child’s school will influence their academic progress, personal development, and future opportunities. It might be difficult to know where to start with so many options available around Australia, each with its special qualities.
How do you determine what best suits your child’s needs and goals?
Every secondary school provides something unique, whether academic excellence, extracurricular activities, or specialised programs in the arts or sports. Balancing these aspects with your child’s hobbies, school culture, and support resources is essential for establishing the ideal environment for their growth and success.
In this blog, we’ll highlight the top secondary schools in Australia for 2025, helping you choose the best fit to support your child’s academic and personal success.
Best Secondary Schools in Australia by State
Australia offers a diverse selection of secondary schools, each with its own strengths and standout qualities. To help you make this important decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top-performing schools in each state, complete with key details such as school type, location, and website links for additional research.
Top 5 Secondary Schools in New South Wales (NSW)
New South Wales is home to some of Australia’s most prestigious secondary schools, renowned for both academic excellence and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities.
1. James Ruse Agricultural High School
Rank: 1
School Type: Government Selective
Location: Carlingford, NSW 2118
School Website: James Ruse Agricultural High
My School URL: James Ruse Agricultural High
2. Baulkham Hills High School
Rank: 2
School Type: Government Selective
Location: Baulkham Hills, NSW 2153
School Website: Baulkham Hills High
My School URL: Baulkham Hills High
3. North Sydney Boys High School
Rank: 3
School Type: Government Selective
Location: Crows Nest, NSW 2065
School Website: North Sydney Boys High
My School URL: North Sydney Boys High
4. Sydney Girls High School
Rank: 4
School Type: Government Selective
Location: Surry Hills, NSW 2010
School Website: Sydney Girls High
My School URL: Sydney Girls High
5. Normanhurst Boys High School
Rank: 5
School Type: Government Selective
Location: Normanhurst, NSW 2076
School Website: Normanhurst Boys High
My School URL: Normanhurst Boys High
This list of top schools in NSW reflects secondary schools that consistently demonstrate high academic standards while providing students with various opportunities to excel both inside and outside the classroom.
Top 5 Secondary Schools in Victoria (VIC)
Victoria is highly competitive when it comes to academic excellence, with schools that nurture both creativity and analytical thinking.
1. Melbourne High School
Rank: 1
School Type: Government Selective
Location: South Yarra, VIC 3141
School Website: Melbourne High School
My School URL: Melbourne High School
2. Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School
Rank: 2
School Type: Government Selective
Location: Melbourne, VIC 3004
School Website: Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School
My School URL: Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School
3. Suzanne Cory High School
Rank: 3
School Type: Government Selective
Location: Werribee, VIC 3030
School Website: Suzanne Cory High School
My School URL: Suzanne Cory High School
4. Nossal High School
Rank: 4
School Type: Government Selective
Location: Berwick, VIC 3806
School Website: Nossal High School
My School URL: Nossal High School
5. Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School (VCASS)
Rank: 5
School Type: Specialised Arts School
Location: Southbank, VIC 3006
School Website: Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School
My School URL: Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School
This list highlights some of Victoria’s top-performing schools, helping you explore their academic focus, creative offerings, and overall educational environment for your child.
Top 5 Secondary Schools in Queensland (QLD)
Queensland offers an impressive mix of top-performing public and private secondary schools that prioritise academic excellence alongside holistic development. These schools provide an environment where students can excel both in the classroom and through extracurricular activities.
1. Brisbane Grammar School
Rank: 1
School Type: Independent
Location: Spring Hill, QLD 4000
School Website: Brisbane Grammar School
My School URL: Brisbane Grammar School
2. Brisbane Girls Grammar School
Rank: 2
School Type: Independent
Location: Brisbane, QLD 4000
School Website: Brisbane Girls Grammar School
My School URL: Brisbane Girls Grammar School
3. Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology (QASMT)
Rank: 3
School Type: Government Selective
Location: Toowong, QLD 4066
School Website: Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology
My School URL: Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology
4. St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School
Rank: 4
School Type: Independent
Location: Corinda, QLD 4075
School Website: St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School
My School URL: St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School
5. St Joseph’s College (Gregory Terrace)
Rank: 5
School Type: Independent
Location: Spring Hill, QLD 4000
School Website: St Joseph’s College
My School URL: St Joseph’s College
These top Queensland schools offer strong academic programs, innovative learning environments, and excellent extracurricular activities, ensuring a well-rounded education for your child.
Do you need tutoring service in Australia? Let us help.
Top 5 Secondary Schools in Western Australia (WA)
Western Australia is home to a diverse range of secondary schools that provide students with an exceptional education, balancing academic achievement, creative arts, and outdoor activities to foster well-rounded development.
1. Perth Modern School
Rank: 1
School Type: Government Selective
Location: Subiaco, WA 6008
School Website: Perth Modern School
My School URL: Perth Modern School
2. Christ Church Grammar School
Rank: 2
School Type: Independent
Location: Claremont, WA 6010
School Website: Christ Church Grammar School
My School URL: Christ Church Grammar School
3. St Hilda’s Anglican School for Girls
Rank: 3
School Type: Independent
Location: Mosman Park, WA 6012
School Website: St Hilda’s Anglican School for Girls
My School URL: St Hilda’s Anglican School for Girls
4. Hale School
Rank: 4
School Type: Independent
Location: Wembley Downs, WA 6019
School Website: Hale School
My School URL: Hale School
5. Methodist Ladies’ College (MLC)
Rank: 5
School Type: Independent
Location: Claremont, WA 6010
School Website: Methodist Ladies’ College
My School URL: Methodist Ladies’ College
Western Australia’s top schools not only excel academically but also encourage creativity, innovation, and physical activity, making them ideal environments for students to grow and succeed.
Top 5 Secondary Schools in South Australia (SA)
South Australia is home to several top-performing schools that combine academic excellence with strong co-curricular offerings. These schools provide students with a well-rounded education, fostering both intellectual and personal development.
1. Adelaide High School
Rank: 1
School Type: Government Selective
Location: Adelaide, SA 5000
School Website: Adelaide High School
My School URL: Adelaide High School
2. Glenunga International High School
Rank: 2
School Type: Government Selective
Location: Glenunga, SA 5064
School Website: Glenunga International High School
My School URL: Glenunga International High School
3. St Peter’s College
Rank: 3
School Type: Independent
Location: St Peters, SA 5069
School Website: St Peter’s College
My School URL: St Peter’s College
4. Seymour College
Rank: 4
School Type: Independent
Location: Glen Osmond, SA 5064
School Website: Seymour College
My School URL: Seymour College
5. Immanuel College
Rank: 5
School Type: Independent
Location: Novar Gardens, SA 5040
School Website: Immanuel College
My School URL: Immanuel College
South Australia’s top secondary schools are known for providing students with a strong academic foundation while also encouraging participation in sports, arts, and leadership opportunities to develop well-rounded individuals.
Top 5 Secondary Schools in Tasmania (TAS)
Tasmania offers a unique, community-focused educational environment with schools that are deeply committed to student success and personal growth. These institutions foster a supportive atmosphere that enables students to excel both academically and personally.
1. The Friends’ School
Rank: 1
School Type: Independent
Location: North Hobart, TAS 7000
School Website: The Friends’ School
My School URL: The Friends’ School
2. St Michael’s Collegiate School
Rank: 2
School Type: Independent
Location: Hobart, TAS 7000
School Website: St Michael’s Collegiate School
My School URL: St Michael’s Collegiate School
3. Hutchins School
Rank: 3
School Type: Independent
Location: Sandy Bay, TAS 7005
School Website: Hutchins School
My School URL: Hutchins School
4. Launceston Church Grammar School
Rank: 4
School Type: Independent
Location: Mowbray Heights, TAS 7248
School Website: Launceston Church Grammar School
My School URL: Launceston Church Grammar School
5. Fahan School
Rank: 5
School Type: Independent
Location: Sandy Bay, TAS 7005
School Website: Fahan School
My School URL: Fahan School
Tasmania’s top schools offer a well-rounded education in a nurturing environment, allowing students to thrive academically while fostering personal development and community involvement.
Top 5 Secondary Schools in Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
ACT schools are renowned for their academic excellence and innovative approach to education, offering students a broad range of opportunities in both academics and extracurricular activities. These schools ensure that students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for future success.
1. Canberra Grammar School
Rank: 1
School Type: Independent
Location: Red Hill, ACT 2603
School Website: Canberra Grammar School
My School URL: Canberra Grammar School
2. Radford College
Rank: 2
School Type: Independent
Location: Bruce, ACT 2617
School Website: Radford College
My School URL: Radford College
3. Narrabundah College
Rank: 3
School Type: Government
Location: Narrabundah, ACT 2604
School Website: Narrabundah College
My School URL: Narrabundah College
4. Merici College
Rank: 4
School Type: Independent
Location: Braddon, ACT 2612
School Website: Merici College
My School URL: Merici College
5. St Clare’s College
Rank: 5
School Type: Independent
Location: Griffith, ACT 2603
School Website: St Clare’s College
My School URL: St Clare’s College
ACT’s top schools are leaders in academic achievement and innovation, ensuring students are not only prepared academically but also equipped with essential life skills through their comprehensive co-curricular programs.
Top 5 Secondary Schools in Northern Territory (NT)
Though smaller in scale, Northern Territory schools offer rigorous academic programs that are often tailored to the region’s unique environment and lifestyle. These schools ensure that students receive an education that reflects both the challenges and opportunities of the Northern Territory.
1. Darwin High School
Rank: 1
School Type: Government
Location: Darwin, NT 0800
School Website: Darwin High School
My School URL: Darwin High School
2. The Essington International School
Rank: 2
School Type: Independent
Location: Rapid Creek, NT 0810
School Website: The Essington International School
My School URL: The Essington International School
3. Casuarina Senior College
Rank: 3
School Type: Government
Location: Casuarina, NT 0810
School Website: Casuarina Senior College
My School URL: Casuarina Senior College
4. St Philip’s College
Rank: 4
School Type: Independent
Location: Alice Springs, NT 0870
School Website: St Philip’s College
My School URL: St Philip’s College
5. Kormilda College
Rank: 5
School Type: Independent
Location: Berrimah, NT 0828
School Website: Kormilda College
My School URL: Kormilda College
Northern Territory’s top schools provide a robust educational framework, combining academic programs with regional-specific offerings, ensuring students are well-prepared for their futures both in the Territory and beyond.
Why Choosing the Right Secondary School is Important
Choosing the best secondary school for your child is an important choice that will affect both their academic and personal development for a long time. It’s important to take into account aspects like the school’s culture, extracurricular programs, and general learning environment in addition to academic rankings and reputations.
- Academic Excellence: Schools that consistently perform well in academic rankings often have a structured curriculum and strong support systems in place.
- Extracurricular Activities: A well-rounded education involves more than just academics. Schools with strong sports, arts, and extracurricular programs offer opportunities for holistic development.
- Support Systems: Mental health services, career guidance, and counselling can make a significant difference in a child’s school experience.
- Community and Values: Each school has its own unique culture. Choosing a school that aligns with your family’s values can help your child feel more comfortable and engaged.
How Dr. Study Tutoring Can Help Your Child Excel in Australia’s Top Secondary Schools
Choosing the right secondary school is important, but ensuring your child has the support they need to succeed is equally critical. Dr. Study Tutoring provides tailored solutions to help students succeed, whether they attend public or private secondary schools.
Here’s how we can support your child’s academic journey:
- Personalised Learning Plans
We create customised study programs that cater to your child’s unique needs, ensuring they receive targeted support in areas where they need it most. - Holistic Development
Our tutoring goes beyond improving grades. We help students build critical thinking, problem-solving, and time-management skills that benefit them both in school and in life. - Expertise in the Australian Curriculum
Dr. Study’s tutors are experts in the Australian curriculum, so the support your child receives directly complements what they’re learning in school. - Support Across All Subjects
From Maths to English and beyond, we offer help in a wide range of subjects to ensure your child excels across the board. - Small Tutor-to-Student Ratio
With a 1:4 tutor-to-student ratio, your child receives focused attention in a small, supportive group setting that promotes active learning.
Dr. Study Tutoring helps students in public and private schools excel in key subjects, and build confidence for success at top secondary schools. We also offer specialised tutoring for selective schools and private school scholarship exams.
Explore our services:
Related Read –
- How to Get a Private School Scholarship in Australia
- Selective High Schools in Australia: A Parent’s Guide
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Let’s take a look at some common questions parents have when choosing a secondary school and how Dr. Study Tutoring can help:
1. What factors should I consider when choosing a secondary school?
When choosing a secondary school, it is crucial to consider academic performance, extracurricular opportunities, school culture, facilities, and available support systems. Visiting the school and conversing with staff and current students can offer valuable insight into the school environment.
2. Are private schools better than public schools in Australia?
Both private and public schools in Australia provide excellent education. The best choice for your child depends on their individual needs, learning style, and interests. Public schools are generally more accessible and often have diverse student populations, while private schools may offer specialised programs and smaller class sizes.
3. How can tutoring help my child succeed in secondary school?
Tutoring offers personalised academic support tailored to your child’s specific needs. It helps reinforce challenging subjects, boosts confidence, and supports the development of important skills such as critical thinking and time management. Tutoring can enhance your child’s performance and overall school experience.
Conclusion
We hope that this blog has given you insights into the best secondary schools in Australia for 2025 and provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision for your child’s future. Choosing the right secondary school is crucial, but so is ensuring that your child receives the extra support they need to excel.
Need help deciding which secondary school is best for your child, or interested in our tutoring services?
Book a free online assessment now to find out how Dr. Study Tutoring can support your child’s educational success.
Author
Natalia Gismondi
Natalia is a vibrant and passionate professional with extensive experience across Business Management, Customer Service, Early Learning, and TV Production. She has pursued higher education in Business, Early Learning, and Marketing, both in Australia and her native Argentina, equipping her with a diverse skill set and global insights.
Bilingual in Spanish and English, Natalia enjoys engaging with students about their language acquisition journeys and goals, fostering a supportive environment for learning. Her managerial skills are complemented by her creative aptitude, allowing her to approach educational service provision in a unique and refreshing manner.
A strong advocate for the DR. STUDY ethos of “learning for life,” Natalia is dedicated to ensuring that every student has the best possible learning experience. Her commitment to personalised education and her ability to inspire students make her an invaluable asset to the team, as she champions the pursuit of knowledge across our educational team.
