Top 10 Girls’ Schools in Sydney (2023)
Discover Sydney's best private girls’ schools. Our 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.
| Schools360 Rank | School | Schools360 Score | Location | Students | Median ATAR | ATAR % >90 | HSC Success Rate | SMH Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pymble Ladies’ College | 93.6% | Pymble | Girls | 90.9% | 54% | 38.6% | 20 |
| 2 | Loreto Kirribilli | 93.2% | Kirribilli | Girls | - | 62% | 46.3% | 11 |
| 3 | St Catherine’s School | 92.9% | Waverley | Girls | 91.5% | 57% | 42.6% | 13 |
| 4 | Abbotsleigh | 91.3% | Wahroonga | Girls | 94.5% | 67% | 46.9% | 7 |
| 5 | MLC Burwood | 91.1% | Burwood | Girls | 91.7% | - | 27.0% | 46 |
| 6 | Kambala Girls | 90.8% | Rose Bay | Girls | - | 55% | 42.4% | 14 |
| 7 | Presbyterian Ladies College | 90.0% | Croydon | Girls | - | 50% | 32.4% | 32 |
| 7 | Ravenswood School for Girls | 90.0% | Gordon | Girls | 90.5% | 51% | 28.0% | 42 |
| 9 | Ascham School | 87.9% | Edgecliff | Girls | - | 57% | 40.2% | 19 |
| 10 | SCEGGS Darlinghurst | 87.7% | Darlinghurst | Girls | - | 60% | 44.4% | 11 |
*Note that the inaugural 360 analysis was conducted in 2023 utilising the available 2022 HSC/ATAR data. HSC/ATAR results for 2023 will be incorporated into the next iteration of our rankings due to be released mid-2024. Visit the individual school websites for the latest results.
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 Sydney’s best girls’ schools to help guide your decision-making journey for your child's future.
We’ve released an updated ranking of the
Top Ten Girls’ Schools in Sydney for 2024
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 Rank | School | Academic Results | Wellbeing | Sports | Arts & Music | Teaching Quality | Facilities | Reputation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pymble Ladies’ College | 9.5 | 9.5 | 10 | 9.5 | 8 | 10 | 9.5 |
| 2 | Loreto Kirribilli | 10 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8.5 | 9.5 | 10 |
| 3 | St Catherine’s School | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9.5 | 8.5 | 9 | 10 |
| 4 | Abbotsleigh | 10 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 8.5 | 9 | 10 |
| 5 | MLC Burwood | 9.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 9 | 10 | 10 |
| 6 | Kambala Girls | 10 | 9.5 | 8.5 | 8.5 | 8.5 | 9 | 10 |
| 7 | Presbyterian Ladies College | 9.5 | 8 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 8 | 9.5 | 9.5 |
| 7 | Ravenswood School for Girls | 9.5 | 8.5 | 8 | 9.5 | 8.5 | 9 | 10 |
| 9 | Ascham School | 10 | 8 | 7.5 | 9 | 8.5 | 8 | 9 |
| 10 | SCEGGS Darlinghurst | 10 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8.5 | 7.5 | 10 |
#1 Girls’ School in Sydney | Pymble Ladies College | Pymble
Sydney’s top ranked private girls’ school is Pymble Ladies’ College, which epitomises comprehensive student development with a Schools360 score of 93.6%. In 2022 their median ATAR was 90.9%, beyond academic excellence, the institution prioritises student wellbeing, leadership, and personal development. It champions mental health by offering robust health programs and counseling services. Emphasising leadership, initiative, and responsibility, the school empowers students to excel not just academically but also in life. Complementing these aspects is their exceptional sports culture, supported by excellent facilities. Additionally, the integration of cutting-edge technology and innovation into the curriculum prepares students for the modern world, delivering a well-rounded education that nurtures confident and innovative future leaders.
#2 Girls’ School in Sydney | Loreto Kirribilli | Kirribilli
Loreto Kirribilli, ranked second with a Schools360 Score of 93.2%, stands out as the top-ranked Catholic girls' school in the region, celebrated for its exceptional reputation and commitment to holistic education. The institution's distinctive focus on sustainability sets it apart, Loreto Kirribilli places considerable emphasis on environmental awareness and sustainability practices. Notably, the school boasts an impressive sports program, fostering a culture of sportsmanship and excellence, reflected in its outstanding sports achievements. The institution's dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals through academic excellence, sustainability initiatives, and a thriving sports culture reaffirms its position as a leader in providing a comprehensive and impactful educational experience for girls.
#3 Girls’ School in Sydney | St Catherine’s School | Waverley
Rounding out the top three is Australia's oldest Anglican girls' school, St Catherine's School with a Schools360 score of 92.98%. St Catherine’s embodies a legacy of academic excellence and a steadfast commitment to student development, it is revered for its rich heritage and ongoing dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals. In 2022, St Catherine's delivered an impressive median ATAR of 91.5% and maintains a robust focus on both academic achievements. The institution is renowned for its comprehensive support programs that foster personal growth, encouraging students to excel not only academically but also in various facets of their lives. St Catherine's fosters a culture of empowerment and growth, its enduring reputation, prestige, and alumni network further solidify its status as one of Sydney’s best schools.
#4 Girls’ School in Sydney | Abbotsleigh | Wahroonga
Abbotsleigh secures fourth position with a Schools360 score of 91.3%. Notably, the Sydney Morning Herald ranked Abbotsleigh as the highest performing private girls school based on its outstanding HSC results in 2022. Standing tall as a beacon of academic excellence with an impressive median ATAR of 94.5%, this institution is revered for its exceptional academic standards. Acknowledged as one of the finest academically, Abbotsleigh also excels in fostering a vibrant arts, music, and drama culture. The school maintains a strong reputation and boasts an extensive alumni network that speaks volumes about its enduring impact. Committed to holistic education, Abbotsleigh remains at the forefront, nurturing not only academic success but also emphasising the importance of creative expression and well-rounded personal development.
#5 Girls’ School in Sydney | MLC School | Burwood
MLC Burwood, with its Schools360 Score of 91.1%, has long maintained a reputation for academic excellence and modernity. Boasting consistently high NAPLAN results and a median ATAR of 91.7%, the school emphasizes a strong academic foundation. Beyond academics, MLC Burwood takes pride in its state-of-the-art campus and modern facilities. Recognised for its commitment to providing an environment conducive to learning, the institution continuously invests in its infrastructure, ensuring students have access to cutting-edge resources and innovative learning spaces. MLC Burwood has a well-earned position as one of Sydney’s distinguished private educational institutions.
#6 Girls’ School in Sydney | Kambala | Rose Bay
In sixth position is Kambala Girls with a Schools360 score of 90.8%. The institution maintains a remarkable reputation for fostering student wellbeing and holistic development. With an emphasis on nurturing the whole individual, Kambala provides robust support systems and programs aimed at ensuring the wellbeing and mental health of its students. Additionally, the school has garnered widespread recognition for its steadfast commitment to maintaining a positive and encouraging environment conducive to personal growth and academic achievement. This dedication to both the students' welfare and upholding a strong reputation reinforces Kambala Girls' position among the top-tier educational institutions in Sydney.
#7 (=) Girls’ School in Sydney | Presbyterian Ladies College | Croydon
Achieving a Schools360 score of 90.0%, Presbyterian Ladies College (PLC) shares seventh position in the Schools360 rankings. Disappointingly, PLC does not publish its median ATAR results, however the school consistently performs well in both NAPLAN and HSC. Known for its diverse curriculum, PLC offers a broad spectrum of academic opportunities. Emphasising extensive sporting programs and exceptional facilities, the school provides a comprehensive educational experience. Moreover, PLC stands out for its remarkable focus on nurturing artistic talents through outstanding arts, music, and drama initiatives, contributing significantly to its holistic educational approach.
#7 (=) Girls’ School in Sydney | Ravenswood School for Girls | Gordon
Equal seventh, also with a Schools360 score of 90.0%, Ravenswood School for Girls, stands out for its distinct emphasis on technology, innovation, and STEM subjects. With consistently high NAPLAN results and delivering a 3-year rolling median ATAR >90%, Ravenswood has a reputation for academic excellence. Renowned for its robust digital curriculum and strong focus on modern and classical languages, Ravenswood emphasises personalised learning and individualised programs. The school's commitment to technology, innovative teaching methods, and personalised learning underscores its dedication to academic excellence and modern educational practices.
#9 Girls’ School in Sydney | Ascham School | Edgecliff
Ranking ninth with a Schools360 score of 87.9%, Ascham School in Edgecliff has established itself as a renowned institution, excelling in various domains. Acknowledged for its strong academic foundation, Ascham maintains a rigorous curriculum contributing to its high academic standards. The school prioritises student wellbeing, ensuring a supportive and nurturing environment for its students. Additionally, Ascham focuses on fostering holistic growth by emphasising personal development and support programs, reinforcing its commitment to shaping well-rounded individuals who are independent and career-ready.
#10 Girls’ School in Sydney | SCEGGS Darlinghurst | Darlinghurst
In tenth spot with a Schools360 score of 87.7%, SCEGGS Darlinghurst distinguishes itself in several key areas. Recognised for its dedication to academic excellence, 60% of the school’s HSC students in 2022 scored an ATAR over 90. SCEGGS provides extensive student support and learning enrichment programs to cater to the individual learning needs of each student. Additionally, the school has a strong focus on developing independence and leadership qualities to prepare students for the future. SCEGGS has a long standing reputation as one of Sydney’s premier learning institutions.
