Top 10 Boys’ Schools in Sydney (2024)
Discover Sydney's best private boys’ schools. Our latest Schools360 rankings showcase the top 10 schools based on our independent, rigorous 360 analysis encompassing Academic Excellence, Student Development & Wellbeing, Learning Programs, Learning Environment, and Institutional Excellence.
***What’s new in our 2024 rankings?*** Our Schools360 framework has had some minor updates based on feedback from parents to ensure that we continue to analyse what’s important. Some individual scoring elements have changed to provide a greater focus on: school diversity; anti-bullying policies and practices; inclusive educational practices; social justice initiatives; outdoor education; practical-based learning; and, career readiness.
| 2024 Ranking | 2023 Ranking | School | Schools360 score | Location | Affiliation | # of students | Grades | Avg. Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4 | The King’s School | 92.7% | Parramatta | Anglican | 2137 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $41,613 |
| 2 | 1 (=) | Knox Grammar School | 92.3% | Wahroonga | Uniting Church | 3268 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $38,540 |
| 3 (=) | 3 | SHORE Sydney CoE Grammar | 90.5% | North Sydney | Anglican | 1662 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $41,707 |
| 3 (=) | 6 (=) | Sydney Grammar School | 90.5% | Darlinghurst | Non-denominational | 1893 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $45,987 |
| 5 | not prev ranked | Trinity Grammar School | 90.4% | Summer Hill | Anglican | 2225 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $42,197 |
| 6 | 5 | Cranbrook School | 90.0% | Bellevue Hill | Anglican | 1682 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $45,321 |
| 7 | 1 (=) | The Scots College | 89.9% | Bellevue | Presbyterian | 2122 | ELC3 - Year 12 | data not available |
| 8 | not prev ranked | Newington College | 89.3% | Stanmore | Uniting Church | 2052 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $40,761 |
| 9 | 8 | St Aloysius Milsons Point | 86.0% | Milsons Point | Catholic | 1299 | Years 3 - 12 | $25,128 |
| 10 | 6 (=) | Saint Ignatius’ College | 85.1% | Lane Cove | Catholic | 1591 | Years 5 - 12 | $36,683 |
Avg. Fees calculated using the most recent published tuition fees for Years 7, 9 & 12 (as at 1 July 2024).
Each of these schools specialises in educating boys, and each stands out with its own unique strengths, ranging from top academic performance and diverse curriculums, to state-of-the-art facilities and innovative teaching methods, to impressive sporting performance and vibrant arts and music programs. Dive into this comprehensive overview of Sydney’s best boys’ schools to help guide your decision-making journey for your child's future.
Explore our Schools Directory with over 50 school profiles and detailed analysis of the best private schools in Sydney
#1 Boys’ School in Sydney | The King’s School | Parramatta
The King’s School is the number one ranked boys’ school in Sydney. Up from fourth place last year, King’s achieved a Schools360 score of 92.7%. The King’s School delivers consistently high NAPLAN results and offers both HSC and IB Diploma Program pathways, in 2023 its combined (HSC & IB) median ATAR was 87.5%. The King’s School offers a diverse curriculum and an extensive range of co-curricular programs. The school boasts comprehensive sports programs, world-class sporting facilities and a track record of sporting success and alumni who have become professional athletes. King’s has a distinctive military-inspired uniform that’s reflective of the school’s culture and values. Located in North Parramatta, and with an outdoor education campus in the Southern Highlands, King’s is home to over 400 local and international boarders. Founded in 1831, this unique school aspires to develop global thought leaders by strengthening academic capability, developing good character and building students’ desire for a life of service.
#2 Boys’ School in Sydney | Knox Grammar School | Wahroonga
Knox Grammar School in Wahroonga ranks as the number two boys’ school for 2024. With an outstanding Schools360 score of 92.3%, up from 90.0% last year, this Uniting Church-affiliated school excels in academic performance, co-curricular activities, and learning environment. In 2023, Knox Grammar was one of the best performing boys’ schools for HSC results, achieving a median ATAR of 93.0% and being ranked 11th by the SMH. The school boasts excellent programs across sports, arts, and music, offering students a diverse platform for personal development and promoting a holistic educational experience. As a leader in K-12 education in Australia, Knox Grammar operates a research institute which seeks to improve and optimise the academic and personal wellbeing of boys and girls through rigorous scientific research. The school’s outstanding academic performance combined with excellent facilities and teaching quality solidifies Knox Grammar's reputation as one of Sydney’s top choices for a private school education for boys.
#3 (=) Boys’ School in Sydney | SHORE School | North Sydney
Shore School (Sydney Church of England Grammar School) ranks as equal third this year. Shore’s Schools360 score increased from 89.2% last year to 90.5% in 2024, further solidifying its position as one of the top three boys’ schools in Sydney. This Anglican boys' school stands out as one of the top-performing academically; Shore delivers consistently high NAPLAN and HSC results, and achieved a median ATAR of 91.9% in 2023, up from 90.4% the previous year. In addition to its academic excellence, Shore boasts a robust sporting program complemented by an impressive campus with excellent sporting facilities. The institution prides itself on fostering a holistic learning environment where students can thrive academically while engaging in a diverse range of co-curricular activities including cadets, drama, and service leadership. SHORE has built a well-earned reputation as one of Sydney’s best private boys schools and continues to deliver a high-quality and well-rounded education.
Image credit: Sydney Grammar School, Darlinghurst
#3 (=) Boys’ School in Sydney | Sydney Grammar School | Darlinghurst
Sharing third place is Sydney Grammar School, one of the oldest schools in Australia. Sydney Grammar achieved a Schools360 score of 90.5% in 2024, up from 85.8% last year. This academically-selective school has a curriculum organised around the ideals of a liberal education, and is renowned for maintaining the highest teaching standards and delivering consistently high academic results. Sydney Grammar saw an outstanding 80% of its HSC students achieve ATARs above 90 in 2023. Sydney Grammar has two preparatory school campuses, located in Paddington and St Ives, a senior campus in Darlinghurst, and sports grounds in nearby Rushcutter’s Bay. Sydney Grammar has an impressive and engaged alumni network and is considered one of the country’s most prestigious schools, reflective in its average tuition fees of $45,987, the highest in the state. The school has a well-earned reputation for nurturing leadership skills, fostering independence, and encouraging creativity among its students.
#5 Boys’ School in Sydney | Trinity Grammar School | Summer Hill
Trinity Grammar School is the fifth-ranked private boys’ school in Sydney. With a Schools360 score of 90.4%, Trinity Grammar narrowly missed out on sharing third place. This Anglican school offers both the IB Primary Years and Diploma Programs, and delivers consistently high NAPLAN results. Trinity stands out for its focus on student wellbeing and personal development, and offers individualised learning support and inclusive education practices. The school has a diverse curriculum and comprehensive co-curricular programs including a an impressive outdoor education program delivered at its Field Studies Centre in Woolamia. Trinity has a strong sporting culture, offering over 30 sports, elite athlete support, state of the art sports facilities, and experienced and specialist coaching staff. With a strong focus on community, Trinity Grammar offers families a holistic education designed to nurture boys to find their own path and reach their full potential.
#6 Boys’ School in Sydney | Cranbrook School | Bellevue Hill
Securing sixth place is Cranbrook School in Bellevue Hill. Despite recent controversies, Cranbrook achieved a Schools360 score of 90.0% this year, up from 87.6% the previous year. Cranbrook stands out for its strong academic programs and a commitment to holistic education, delivering a median ATAR of 89% for two consecutive years. The school boasts a picturesque campus and offers comprehensive co-curricular programs that cater to individual learning needs. Cranbrook’s two Pre-Schools are already coeducational, and the school will welcome girls to the Senior School in 2026 for Year 7 and Year 11, transitioning to become fully coeducational by 2029. The school prides itself on celebrating the intellectual versatility, academic hunger, curiosity and creativity of its’ students. Recognised for its tailored learning support and enrichment programs, Cranbrook School is dedicated to fostering an environment conducive to academic excellence and personal growth and remains one of the best boys’ schools in Sydney.
#7 Boys’ School in Sydney | The Scots College | Bellevue Hill
Ranked seventh is The Scots College, a multi-campus Presbyterian day and boarding school. This year Scots achieved a Schools360 score of 89.9%, down from 90.0% last year which earned it the top spot in our inaugural rankings. The school is renowned for its sporting excellence, Scots offers a comprehensive sporting program including elite athlete support. Scots boasts state-of-the-art facilities, the campus fosters an environment conducive to both academic and personal growth. Scots College has one of the lowest student:teacher ratios, meaning that students have individualised learning support. The school places a significant emphasis on holistic student development, nurturing leadership qualities and individual talents. As one of the oldest schools in Australia, Scots has maintained its commitment to academic rigour and comprehensive character development, making it a preferred choice for families seeking a top-tier educational experience for their boys.
#8 Boys’ School in Sydney | Newington College | Stanmore
Newington College is ranked the number eight boys’ school in Sydney for 2024. Previously unranked, this year Newington College achieved a Schools360 score of 89.3% earning a place in the top ten. The school delivers consistently high NAPLAN results and offers both HSC and the IB Diploma Program. This multi-campus school educates over 2,000 boys across campuses in Stanmore and Lindfield. Newington has impressive facilities, high-quality teaching staff, and extensive co-curricular options including a dedicated service and outdoor education campus located in Eungai Creek. The school is known for its focus on student wellbeing and personal development and has announced its planned transition to co-education, accepting girls into Kindergarten and Year 5 from 2026, and Year 7 and Year 11 from 2028. Newington College has been a leader in private education for over 160 years and has an ambitious vision for the future.
#9 Boys’ School in Sydney | St Aloysius College Sydney | Milsons Point
St Aloysius is ninth in our ranking of the best boys’ schools in Sydney and the top-ranked Catholic boys’ school. Located in Milsons Point, St Aloysius achieved a Schools360 score of 86.0% and is the smallest school to make the top ten this year (approx 1,300 students). This Jesuit school consistently delivers excellent HSC results, achieving a median ATAR of 95.48% in 2023, up from 93.0% in 2022. Renowned for its strong academic performance, St Aloysius is highly regarded for its exceptional teaching methodologies and visionary approach to education. The school has a strong emphasis on academic excellence, providing students with an impressive strategy and vision for the school’s future. St Aloysius has earned its reputation as one of Sydney’s best Catholic boys schools, and with average tuition fees of $25,128 the school provides exceptional value for such a high-quality education.
#10 Boys’ School in Sydney | St Ignatius’ College | Lane Cove
St Ignatius’ College Riverview, an independent Catholic boys’ school located in Lane Cove, rounds out the top ten. Riverview achieved a Schools360 score of 85.1% and is known for providing a well-rounded Jesuit education with a strong focus on service. The school has a robust STEM curriculum, comprehensive career readiness programs, and an outstanding sports culture. Riverview has a distinct reputation for its emphasis on holistic education and inclusive education practices, the school has a low student to teacher ratio and offers a Special Education Inclusion Program to accommodate students with intellectual disabilities. Riverview is well-regarded for its commitment to preparing students for successful futures and maintains its position as one of the top Catholic boys' schools in Sydney.
Below is a comparison of scores for the factors that parents told us are most important when choosing a private school. Note that scores are out of 10. To learn more about our school ranking methodology click here and view the school profiles to see in-depth analysis.
| Schools360 ranking | School | Academic Excellence | Wellbeing & Development | Learning Opportunities | Learning Environment | Institutional Excellence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The King’s School | 95% | 87% | 100% | 90% | 90% |
| 2 | Knox Grammar School | 100% | 83% | 93% | 95% | 83% |
| 3 (=) | SHORE Sydney CoE Grammar | 97% | 85% | 92% | 92% | 82% |
| 3 (=) | Sydney Grammar School | 100% | 87% | 88% | 87% | 85% |
| 5 | Trinity Grammar School | 85% | 93% | 93% | 93% | 88% |
| 6 | Cranbrook School | 93% | 88% | 93% | 90% | 80% |
| 7 | The Scots College | 85% | 90% | 97% | 92% | 87% |
| 8 | Newington College | 85% | 93% | 93% | 95% | 77% |
| 9 | St Aloysius Milsons Point | 97% | 85% | 80% | 80% | 83% |
| 10 | Saint Ignatius’ College | 80% | 88% | 88% | 82% | 92% |
Image credit: Newington College, Stanmore
