Top 10 Catholic Schools in Sydney (2023)
Discover Sydney's best Catholic schools. Catholic schools play an important role within the NSW education system with 1 in 5 students in Sydney enrolled in Catholic schools. Our Schools360 rankings showcase the top 10 Catholic schools based on our independent, rigorous 360 analysis encompassing Academic Excellence*, Student Development & Wellbeing, Learning Programs, Learning Environment, and Institutional Excellence.
| Schools360 ranking | School | Schools360 score | Location | Gender | Median ATAR | ATAR % >90 | HSC Success rate | SMH rank 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Loreto Kirribilli | 93.2% | Kirribilli | Girls | - | 62% | 46.3% | 12 |
| 2 | St Ignatius’ College | 85.8% | Lane Cove | Boys | - | 26.9% | 48 | |
| 3 | St Aloysius Milsons Point | 85.1% | Milsons Point | Boys | 93.0% | 61% | 42.1% | 16 |
| 4 | Loreto Normanhurst | 84.4% | Normanhurst | Girls | - | 41% | 26.1% | 49 |
| 5 | Monte Sant’ Angelo Mercy | 83.9% | North Sydney | Girls | - | 40% | 21.6% | 64 |
| 6 | Santa Sabina College | 83.7% | Strathfield | Girls | 81.5% | 40% | 23.7% | 56 |
| 7 | Our Lady of Mercy College | 81.5% | Parramatta | Girls | 82.0% | 30% | 21.3% | 65 |
| 8 | Kincoppal-Rose Bay | 80.4% | Rose Bay | Girls | 89.0% | 48% | 28.0% | 41 |
| 8 | St Joseph’s College | 80.4% | Hunters Hill | Boys | - | - | 17.9% | 89 |
| 10 | St Augustine’s College Sydney | 78.8% | Brookvale | Boys | - | - | 19.6% | 78 |
*Note that the inaugural 360 analysis was conducted in 2023 utilising the available 2022 VCE/ATAR data. VCE/ATAR results for 2023 will be incorporated into the next iteration of our rankings due to be released mid-2024. Click Here for the latest VCE results or visit the individual school websites.
Each of these schools is committed to delivering quality education with Catholic values, fostering a nurturing environment that encourages both academic excellence and moral development. Each institution stands out with its own unique strengths, ranging from innovative teaching methodologies to a rich array of extracurricular activities. Dive into this comprehensive overview of Sydney’s best Catholic 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
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 results | Welbeing | Sports | Arts & Music | Teaching quality | Facilities | Reputation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Loreto Kirribilli | 10 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8.5 | 9.5 | 10 |
| 2 | St Ignatius’ College | 8 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 |
| 3 | St Aloysius Milsons Point | 10 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8.5 | 8 | 9 |
| 4 | Loreto Normanhurst | 8 | 8 | 7.5 | 8 | 9.5 | 8.5 | 9 |
| 5 | Monte Sant’ Angelo Mercy | 8 | 8.5 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8.5 |
| 6 | Santa Sabina College | 8 | 8.5 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 |
| 7 | Our Lady of Mercy College | 7.5 | 8.5 | 6.5 | 8.5 | 7.5 | 7.5 | 8.5 |
| 8 | Kincoppal-Rose Bay | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.5 | 8 | 8 | 7.5 |
| 8 | St Joseph’s College | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7.5 | 10 | 8 |
| 10 | St Augustine’s College Sydney | 7 | 8.5 | 7.5 | 7.5 | 7.5 | 8.5 | 8 |
#1 Catholic School in Sydney | Loreto Kirribilli | Kirribilli
Loreto Kirribilli stands out as the top-ranked Catholic school in Sydney with a Schools360 Score of 93.2%. The school is celebrated for its exceptional reputation and commitment to holistic education. Whilst the school does not disclose its median ATAR score, their 2023 HSC results were impressive with 52% of students achieving an ATAR above 90. Notably, the school boasts an impressive sports program, fostering a culture of sportsmanship and excellence, reflected in its outstanding sports achievements. Loreto Kirribilli places considerable emphasis on environmental awareness and sustainability practices. Loreto’s dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals through academic excellence and a thriving sports culture reaffirms its position as a leader in providing a comprehensive and impactful Catholic education for girls.
#2 Catholic School in Sydney | St Ignatius’ College | Lane Cove
St Ignatius’ College in Lane Cove takes second place with a Schools360 score of 85.8% . This Jesuit boys' school boasts a robust STEM curriculum, comprehensive career readiness programs, and an outstanding sports culture. With a strong focus on holistic education, St Ignatius’ College excels in both academics and extracurricular activities; the school delivered a median ATAR of 84.1% in the 2023 HSC results. The school is well-regarded for its commitment to preparing students for successful futures while maintaining its position as the top Catholic boys' schools in Sydney. Riverview has an impressive campus and a distinct reputation for its emphasis on sustainability initiatives.
#3 Catholic School in Sydney | St Aloysius | Milsons Point
Ranked third is St Aloysius Milsons Point, which achieved a Schools360 score of 85.1%. This Jesuit boys' school delivered a remarkable 93.0% median ATAR in 2022 and 95.48% in 2023. Renowned for its strong academic performance, the institution is highly regarded for its exceptional teaching methodologies and visionary approach to education. Whilst the school has a rich tradition of academic excellence, it continues to innovate its teaching practices and has an impressive strategy and vision for the school’s future. St Aloysius also stands out for its focus on personal development, providing students with opportunities to develop leadership skills and encouraging initiative and independence. The school has a well earned reputation as one of Sydney’s best Catholic education institutions.
#4 Catholic School in Sydney | Loreto Normanhurst | Normanhurst
Loreto Normanhurst, ranks as the #4 Catholic School in Sydney, stands as a prominent Catholic day and boarding school for girls spanning Years 5-12. With a storied history dating back to 1897, Loreto Normanhurst is an integral part of a global network of Loreto schools, overseen by Loreto Ministries and representing one of six Loreto schools in Australia. The institution boasts a commendable Schools360 score of 85.1%, reflecting its commitment to overall excellence. While Loreto Normanhurst does not disclose its median ATAR, 35% of HSC students in 2023 achieved an ATAR score above 90. The institution takes pride in maintaining a low student-to-teacher ratio and employs a high-quality teaching staff with an innovative teaching approach. Loreto Normanhurst is distinguished by its robust support for underrepresented groups, fostering a nurturing environment that encourages initiative, independence, and a strong commitment to sustainability.
#5 Catholic School in Sydney | Monte Sant’ Angelo Mercy | North Sydney
In 5th position is Monte Sant’ Angelo Mercy, with a Schools360 score of 83.9%. Established in 1875, Monte Sant’ Angelo Mercy has been dedicated to educating and caring for young women, upholding a tradition of excellence in Catholic education shaped by its founders, the Sisters of Mercy North Sydney. While the institution does not disclose its median ATAR, 40% of students achieved an ATAR score above 90 in 2023, and offers a dual program encompassing both HSC and IB. Monte also offers distinctive industry partnership and entrepreneurship programs providing students with a diverse and enriching academic experience and career readiness. Monte has a strong co-curricular program, excelling in arts and music, with an emphasis on fostering creative passions and developing musical and performing skills. The institution's facilities further enhances the learning experience, combining state-of-the-art learning environments with buildings of architectural and historical significance.
#6 Catholic School in Sydney | Santa Sabina College | Strathfield
Ranked as the number 6 Catholic School in Sydney, Santa Sabina College in Strathfield boasts a Schools360 score of 83.7%. Demonstrating notable academic improvement, the college saw a significant rise in HSC results, with 56% of students achieving an ATAR score above 90 in 2023, up from 40% in 2022. Santa Sabina is dedicated to career readiness, encouraging initiative and independence, aligning with the principles of the Dominican Order—a Roman Catholic religious order renowned for its commitment to holistic education. This Catholic, Dominican, independent day school, catering to girls and boys up to Year 4 and girls from Year 5 to Year 12, is committed to educating students for a life of faith, integrity, and truth. Offering both HSC and IB programs, Santa Sabina emphasises personalised learning and differentiation within mixed-ability classrooms to meet diverse learning needs effectively.
#7 Catholic School in Sydney | Our Lady of Mercy College | Parramatta
Our Lady of Mercy College in Parramatta, ranked as the 7th best Catholic school in Sydney, achieved a Schools360 score of 81.5%. The college delivers strong NAPLAN results across years, as well as consistent HSC results, achieving a median ATAR of 82.0% in 2022 and 82.3% in 2023. OLMC is dedicated to student wellbeing, diversity, and inclusion, fostering a welcoming community that values individual development as learners, leaders, and teachers. The school's vision revolves around providing a contemporary Mercy Education, empowering young women to lead courageously and act justly, making a difference in various spheres of life. With a strong emphasis on technology, innovation, and digital learning initiatives, OLMC ensures students are well-equipped for success in a dynamic and evolving educational landscape. Additionally, OLMC is highly engaged in community initiatives, further enhancing its commitment to holistic education.
#8 (=) Catholic School in Sydney | Kincoppal-Rose Bay | Rose Bay
Kincoppal-Rose Bay ranked equal 8th with a Schools360 score of 80.4%. KRB is a distinguished Catholic girls’ school with a rich heritage, situated in Rose Bay overlooking Sydney Harbour. The school consistently achieves high NAPLAN scores and commendable HSC results with a median ATAR of 89.0% in 2022, and 86.0% in 2023, earning the 49th position in the SMH rankings for 2023 HSC results. KRB places a strong emphasis on pastoral care, ensuring the well-being and personal development of its students. With a focus on STEM education, Kincoppal-Rose Bay provides a dynamic learning environment that prepares students for the challenges of the future. The school is also recognised for its distinctive tennis and swim programs, contributing to a well-rounded education that goes beyond the classroom. As part of the international network of Sacred Heart Schools, KRB continues to uphold the values of the Sacred Heart tradition in its pursuit of educational excellence.
#8 (=) Catholic School in Sydney | St Joseph’s College | Hunters Hill
St. Joseph’s College claims the equal 8th position among Sydney's top Catholic schools, with a commendable Schools360 rating of 80.4%. While the median ATAR is undisclosed, the school's improved its standing in the SMH HSC rankings, moving from 89 in 2022 to 74 in 2023. Established by the Marist Brothers in 1881, the Catholic faith holds a central place in the school's vision, guiding its mission to provide boys with a quality education that harmonises faith, culture, and life. Joey’s is renowned for its expansive campus and excellent facilities. The school places a significant emphasis on sports, fostering a vibrant sporting culture that allows students to actively engage in various disciplines, contributing to a well-rounded educational journey. With a diverse curriculum that includes a range of modern and classical languages, Joey’s ensures that students have access to exceptional learning opportunities within a supportive Christian environment.
#10 Catholic School in Sydney | St Augustine’s College Sydney | Brookvale
St. Augustine’s College secures its top-ten position with a Schools360 score of 78.8%. Renowned for fostering student leadership and prioritising student wellbeing within a Catholic framework, the college is committed to providing a well-rounded educational experience. St. Augustine’s is recognised as an expert in boys' education, in the 2023 HSC results, 25% of students achieved an ATAR above 90. Central to the college's ethos are the Augustinian values of Truth, Love, and Community, which serve to focus and unite staff, parents, and students. St. Augustine's places a strong emphasis on student wellbeing, actively contributing to the mental health and overall development of its students. The school offers impressive facilities on the Northern Beaches of Sydney including design and technology workshops, specialist art studios, and open/green spaces for learning and recreation.
