Top 10 Girls’ Schools in Melbourne (2024)
Discover Melbourne's best private girls 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 (change from prev.) | Change from prev. | School | Schools360 score | Location | Affiliation | # of students | Grades | Avg. Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | No change | Melbourne Girls' Grammar School | 92.4% | South Yarra | Anglican | 1058 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $40,221 |
| 2 | + 1 | Lauriston Girls' School | 91.6% | Armadale | Non-denominational | 894 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $41,267 |
| 3 | + 1 | St. Catherine's School | 91.0% | Toorak | Non-denominational | 662 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $39,660 |
| 4 | - 2 | Camberwell Girls Grammar | 89.9% | Canterbury | Anglican | 756 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $36,283 |
| 5 | + 1 | Strathcona Girls' Grammar School | 89.2% | Canterbury | Baptist | 769 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $36,227 |
| 6 | + 4 | Methodist Ladies College | 88.4% | Kew | Non-denominational | 2089 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $36,915 |
| 7 | - 1 | Korowa Anglican Girls' School | 88.0% | Glen Iris | Anglican | 721 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $35,993 |
| 8 | + 2 | Loreto Mandeville Hall | 87.8% | Toorak | Catholic | 1235 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $31,980 |
| 9 | - 1 | Presbyterian Ladies' College | 86.9% | Burwood | Presbyterian | 1514 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $34,049 |
| 10 (=) | - 5 | Toorak College | 86.1% | Mount Eliza | Non-denominational | 854 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $32,087 |
| 10 (=) | -1 | Ruyton Girls' School | 86.1% | Kew | Non-denominational | 854 | ELC3 - Year 12 | $37,410 |
Avg. Fees calculated using thee most recent published tuition fees for Years 7, 9 & 12 (as at 1 July 2024).
Each of these schools specialises in educating girls, 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 Melbourne’s best girls’ schools to help guide your decision-making journey for your child's future.
Image credit: Loreto Mandeville Hall
Explore our Schools Directory with over 50 school profiles and detailed analysis of the best private schools in Melbourne
#1 Girls’ School in Melbourne | Melbourne Girls' Grammar School | South Yarra
Melbourne Girls' Grammar School claims the top spot for the second consecutive year with an impressive Schools360 score of 92.4%. MGGS continues to showcase its commitment to holistic education and consistently delivers academically, with high NAPLAN scores and a 5 year rolling median ATAR of ~90%. However, what truly sets it apart is its dedication to student development & wellbeing. With a strong emphasis on individualised learning, health and fitness programs, and mentorship initiatives, MGGS fosters an environment that encourages initiative, independence, and creativity. The school has a strong reputation for outstanding sporting programs, facilities and achievements. With a high progression rate to top-tier universities, and a well-rounded approach to education, MGGS continues to deliver excellence in girls' private education.
#2 Girls’ School in Melbourne | Lauriston Girls' School | Armadale
Moving up from third place in 2023 to second place in 2024 is Lauriston Girls' School in Armadale. With a Schools360 score of 91.6% Lauriston is distinguished by its outstanding academic results delivering a 5 year rolling median ATAR score of 92.8%. The school takes pride in offering a diverse curriculum including the IB Diploma Program and has a strong emphasis on STEM subjects and digital literacy. Beyond academics, the institution fosters a culture of creativity and innovation, evident in its exceptional achievements in the arts. Lauriston's commitment to institutional excellence is reflected in its strong governance, and an alumni network that attests to its reputation. The school's exceptional overall performance, plus its unique Year 9 Howqua program, makes it a prominent choice for a well-rounded education.
#3 Girls’ School in Melbourne | St Catherine's School | Toorak
St Catherine's School in Toorak moves up to third place this year (from fourth in 2023). The school’s Schools360 score increased to 91.0% recognising its ongoing academic excellence. In the 2023 VCE, St. Catherine's delivered a median ATAR of 93.4%. St. Catherine's takes pride in its diverse learning programs, with a curriculum rich in specialised subjects, modern languages, and robust STEM offerings. The school continues to excel in sports, providing extensive opportunities, athlete support, and impressive sporting achievements. The school's facilities and learning spaces are modern and functional, creating an environment conducive to academic growth. St Catherine's has a well-established reputation as a one of the best girls’ schools in Melbourne.
Image credit: St Catherine's School Toorak
Academic Results 2023*
*Note that the 360 analysis utilises the available 2023 VCE/ATAR data. Click Here for the latest VCE results or visit the individual school websites.
| 2024 Ranking | School | Median ATAR | % ATAR >95 | % ATAR >90 | Median VCE | % VCE scores >40 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Melbourne Girls' Grammar School | 85.10% | 25% | 37% | 34 | 20% |
| 2 | Lauriston Girls' School | 89.75% | - | 49% | 34 | 20% |
| 3 | St. Catherine's School | 93.40% | 39% | 58% | 36 | 29% |
| 4 | Camberwell Girls Grammar | 93.00% | 32% | 63% | 35 | 20% |
| 5 | Strathcona Girls' Grammar School | 90.90% | 37% | 52% | 35 | 24% |
| 6 | Methodist Ladies College | 86.90% | - | - | 33 | 20% |
| 7 | Korowa Anglican Girls' School | 94.10% | 38% | 68% | 36 | 29% |
| 8 | Loreto Mandeville Hall | 91.00% | 30% | 53% | 36 | 30% |
| 9 | Presbyterian Ladies' College | 92.25% | 45% | 58% | 35 | 23% |
| = 10 | Toorak College | - | 22% | 37% | 34 | 16% |
| = 10 | Ruyton Girls' School | 94.30% | 43% | 61% | 37 | 31% |
#4 Girls’ School in Melbourne | Camberwell Girls Grammar | Canterbury
Camberwell Girls Grammar in Canterbury secures fourth position with a commendable Schools360 score of 89.9%. The institution continues to stand out as an academic powerhouse, delivering a median ATAR of 93.0% for two consecutive years. Beyond academics, the school excels in co-curricular offerings, particularly its arts, music, and drama programs. The school's commitment to student development & wellbeing is reflected in its comprehensive student support programs and support for individualised learning. Additionally, Camberwell Girls maintains a solid reputation with a noteworthy alumni network, making it a great choice for a well-rounded and academically enriched education.
#5 Girls’ School in Melbourne | Strathcona Girls' Grammar | Canterbury
Moving up to fifth place this year is Strathcona Girls’ Grammar in Canterbury. With an improved Schools360 score of 89.2% , the school which is affiliated with the Baptist tradition, offers a holistic educational experience. Strathcona excels in academic excellence, delivering a median ATAR of 90.9% in the 2023 VCE. The school is renowned for providing excellent facilities that enhance the overall learning experience and is committed to a well-rounded education, creating an environment that encourages initiative and independence. With a solid foundation in academics, comprehensive arts and music programs, and a strong focus on sustainability, Strathcona continues to be a popular choice for a private school education.
#6 Girls’ School in Melbourne | Methodist Ladies' College | Kew
MLC in Kew is one of the biggest movers this year, jumping four places to secure sixth position. MLC, a non-denominational school with over 2,000 students, is an educational powerhouse, achieving a Schools360 score of 88.4%. MLC performs highly in NAPLAN, VCE and IB Diploma, delivering a median ATAR of 86.9% across their combined IB and VCE cohort in 2023. The school offers a curriculum that caters to diverse student interests across arts, music, and STEM subjects. MLC offers a comprehensive health and fitness program and has a strong culture with a range of sporting options coupled with world-class facilities. MLC has a solid reputation and a well-balanced approach to education, offering a holistic learning environment.
#7 Girls’ School in Melbourne | Korowa Anglican Girls' School | Glen Iris
Maintaining its spot in the top ten is Korowa Anglican Girls' School in Glen Iris. This year, Korowa achieved a Schools360 score of 88.0%. The school continues to shine in academic excellence, boasting a median ATAR of 94.1% in 2023, up from 93.8% in 2022. Korowa emphasises individualised learning and personal development. The institution also stands out for its impressive university progression rate and high percentage of graduates entering top-tier universities. Nestled in the serene surroundings of Glen Iris, Korowa provides comprehensive learning opportunities including its Signature Programs, as well as a positive learning environment with modern facilities, contributing to its well-earned reputation as a centre for academic and personal growth.
#8 Girls’ School in Melbourne | Loreto Mandeville Hall | Toorak
Loreto Mandeville Hall jumped two places this year to secure eighth position. Loreto is the top-ranked girls' Catholic school in Melbourne, with a Schools360 score of 87.8%. The school stands out for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic development, delivering consistently high NAPLAN results and an impressive median ATAR of 91.0% in 2023. Loreto's focus on student development & wellbeing is reflected in its wellbeing programs, student support and pastoral care services. Loreto maintains a strong reputation for academic achievement with a high percentage of graduates progressing to top-tier universities. Loreto aims to develop students of good character with a strong social justice and community impact focus. Graduates are welcomed into Loreto’s global alumni network which includes a mentoring program.
#9 Girls’ School in Melbourne | Presbyterian Ladies' College | Burwood
Presbyterian Ladies' College in Burwood secures ninth position. The school achieved a median ATAR of 92.25% in 2023, up from 91.3% the previous year. PLC excels in learning programs, offering the IB Diploma Program and a diverse range of STEM subjects and modern languages. PLC's strong reputation is further amplified by its impressive campus and teaching quality, the school delivers a well-rounded education, combining academic prowess with a positive learning environment. PLC is a top choice for parents wanting to prioritise academic performance, in 2023, 45% of PLC’s VCE cohort graduated in the top 5% of the state.
#10 (=) Girls’ School in Melbourne | Toorak College | Mount Eliza
Toorak College is equal tenth in this year’s rankings. A non-denominational school, located on the Morning Peninsula, Toorak College ranks among the best metropolitan schools in Melbourne. With a Schools360 score of 86.1%, the school stands out for its focus on student development & wellbeing, offering comprehensive health and fitness programs, mentorship, and an inclusive environment. The school’s 2023 median ATAR was undisclosed. Toorak College provides modern facilities, including spacious green areas for both recreation and learning, fostering a nurturing atmosphere for academic and personal growth. The school's strategic vision and commitment to sustainability contribute to its strong reputation and make it a top choice for a well-rounded education outside of Melbourne.
#10 (=) Girls’ School in Melbourne | Ruyton Girls' School | Kew
Ruyton Girls' School in Kew maintains its place in our top ten rankings. Ruyton achieved a Schools360 score of 86.1% this year. A non-denominational institution, Ruyton continues to stand out as a beacon of academic achievement with a median ATAR of 94.3% in 2023, one of the highest in the state. The school's commitment to delivering a well-rounded education is reflected in its strong emphasis on arts, music, and drama and other co-curricular offerings. Ruyton delivers a strong learning environment, with a low student to teacher ratio, high quality teaching staff, impressive campus, and excellent integration of technology into teaching. Ruyton remains a popular choice for parents who prioritise academic results.
Below is a comparison of scores for each building block of our 360 assessment. To learn more about our school ranking methodology click here and view the school profiles to see in-depth analysis.
| School | Academic Excellence | Wellbeing & Development | Learning Opportunities | Learning Environment | Institutional Excellence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Melbourne Girls' Grammar School | 90% | 93% | 95% | 92% | 93% |
| Lauriston Girls' School | 95% | 92% | 88% | 90% | 92% |
| St. Catherine's School | 95% | 90% | 87% | 92% | 90% |
| Camberwell Girls Grammar | 95% | 88% | 85% | 88% | 92% |
| Strathcona Girls' Grammar School | 97% | 88% | 85% | 87% | 85% |
| Methodist Ladies College | 90% | 85% | 93% | 90% | 80% |
| Korowa Anglican Girls' School | 95% | 82% | 85% | 92% | 82% |
| Loreto Mandeville Hall | 93% | 82% | 85% | 87% | 92% |
| Presbyterian Ladies' College | 98% | 73% | 87% | 85% | 87% |
| Toorak College | 82% | 90% | 83% | 92% | 85% |
| Ruyton Girls' School | 97% | 75% | 83% | 85% | 87% |
Image credit: Lauriston Girls School
