Top 10 Private Schools in Melbourne (2023)
Discover Melbourne's best private 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 ranking | School | Schools360 score | Location | Gender | Median ATAR | ATAR % >90 | Median VCE | % VCE 40+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Melbourne Girls' Grammar School | 93.6% | South Yarra | Girls | 86.6% | 40% | 34 | 19% |
| 2 | Camberwell Grammar School | 92.8% | Canterbury | Boys | 90.9% | 51% | 34 | 21% |
| 3 | Scotch College | 92.1% | Hawthorn | Boys | 90.7% | 52% | 35 | 23% |
| 4 | Melbourne Grammar School | 90.9% | South Yarra | Boys | 89.8% | 50% | 35 | 26% |
| 5 | Camberwell Girls Grammar | 90.8% | Canterbury | Girls | 93.0% | 55% | 35 | 24% |
| 6 | Lauriston Girls' School | 89.8% | Armadale | Girls | 94.9% | 68% | 36 | 29% |
| 7 | Haileybury College | 89.6% | Keysborough | Co-ed | 93.5% | 60% | 36 | 32% |
| 8 | Brighton Grammar School | 89.3% | Brighton | Boys | 87.3% | 45% | 35 | 20% |
| 9 | St. Catherine's School | 89.2% | Toorak | Girls | 92.5% | 55% | 37 | 33% |
| 10 | Toorak College | 88.8% | Mount Eliza | Girls | 87.0% | 40% | 35 | 19% |
*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 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 private 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 Melbourne
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.
| Schools 360 ranking | School | Academic results | Wellbeing | Sports | Arts & Music | Teaching quality | Facilities | Reputation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Melbourne Girls' Grammar School | 8.5 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 10 | 9.5 | 9.5 |
| 2 | Camberwell Grammar School | 9 | 8.5 | 10 | 8.5 | 9.5 | 10 | 9.5 |
| 3 | Scotch College | 9.5 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 9.5 | 9.5 |
| 4 | Melbourne Grammar School | 9 | 8.5 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 |
| 5 | Camberwell Girls Grammar | 10 | 9.5 | 8 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 9 | 9.5 |
| 6 | Lauriston Girls' School | 10 | 8.5 | 9.5 | 8 | 9.5 | 8.5 | 9.5 |
| 7 | Haileybury College | 10 | 9 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 9 | 10 | 9 |
| 8 | Brighton Grammar School | 8.5 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 9.5 |
| 9 | St. Catherine's School | 10 | 8.5 | 9 | 8 | 9.5 | 10 | 10 |
| 10 | Toorak College | 8.5 | 9 | 8.5 | 8.5 | 9 | 10 | 9 |
#1 Private School in Melbourne | Melbourne Girls’ Grammar School | South Yarra
Melbourne Girls' Grammar School claims the top spot as the best private school in Melbourne with an impressive Schools360 score of 93.6%, showcasing its commitment to holistic education. MGGS delivers solid academic results, with high NAPLAN scores and a 5 year rolling median ATAR ~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's reputation is further solidified by its strong alumni network and a remarkable Sustainability commitment, contributing to its impact in the community. With a 95% university progression rate and a well-rounded approach to education, MGGS stands as a beacon of excellence in private education.
#2 Private School in Melbourne | Camberwell Grammar School | Canterbury
Camberwell Grammar School secures the overall number 2 spot and is ranked the best boys’ school in Melbourne with an exceptional Schools360 score of 92.8%, driven by its distinguished Academic Excellence. The school consistently delivers outstanding ATAR scores, with a median ATAR of 91.5% in 2023 and a 5-year rolling median ATAR above 90%. Camberwell Grammar School stands out in Learning Programs, offering an array of diverse and specialised subjects, complemented by comprehensive co-curricular programs. The school continues to invest heavily in state-of-the-art facilities and innovative learning spaces. Notably, Camberwell Grammar School is a leader in sustainability, exemplified by its strategic initiatives, targets, and sustainable practices.
#3 Private School in Melbourne | Scotch College | Hawthorn
Securing an impressive third place with a Schools360 score of 92.1%, Scotch College is ranked the second best boys’ school in Melbourne and distinguishes itself with consistently high NAPLAN results. Median ATAR was 90.7% in 2022 and 89.95 in 2023. The school's commitment to academic excellence is complemented by its renowned sporting focus, with comprehensive sports offering, elite sports programs and leading sports facilities. Scotch College provides a range of leadership development opportunities for students. Known for its enduring reputation and prestige, Scotch College stands out in Institutional Excellence, contributing to its well-deserved recognition as a distinguished private educational institution.
#4 Private School in Melbourne | Melbourne Grammar School | South Yarra
Ranked fourth with a Schools360 score of 90.9%, Melbourne Grammar School is distinguished by its strong Academic Excellence. Renowned for consistently strong VCE results, the school’s 5-year rolling median ATAR is >90 with 55% of VCE students achieving a 90+ ATAR in 2023. Located in the inner city suburb of South Yarra, the institution's legacy since 1858 contributes to its reputation and Institutional Excellence. Complementing its academic focus, Melbourne Grammar excels in sports, offering comprehensive programs and world-class facilities. Notably, the school places a strong emphasis on shaping future leaders and has fostered a robust alumni network, further solidifying its position as a leader in boys private education in Melbourne.
#5 Private School in Melbourne | Camberwell Girls Grammar | Canterbury
Camberwell Girls Grammar in Canterbury ranks fifth overall and is ranked the second best girls’ school in Melbourne with a Schools360 score of 90.8%. The institution stands out as an academic powerhouse, delivering a median ATAR of 93 in both 2022 and 2023 VCE results. 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 prominent choice for a well-rounded and academically enriched education.
#6 Private School in Melbourne | Lauriston Girls' School | Armadale
Securing sixth spot is Lauriston Girls' School in Armadale with a Schools360 score of 89.8%. Notably, Lauriston Girls' School is distinguished by its outstanding Academic Excellence, whilst the median ATAR dropped to 86.05% in 2023, Lauriston’s 5-year rolling average median ATAR remains well above 90. The school takes pride in offering a diverse curriculum, emphasising 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 performance across various domains makes it a prominent choice for a well-rounded education.
#7 Private School in Melbourne | Haileybury College | Keysborough
Haileybury, Melbourne's premier multi-campus co-educational school, is ranked seventh with a Schools360 Score of 89.6%. Focusing on Academic Excellence, Haileybury consistently delivers strong VCE results and boasted an impressive median ATAR of 93.5% in 2022 and 89.4% in the 2023 VCE results. The school stands out in Learning Programs, offering a diverse STEM curriculum and comprehensive music programs that contribute to a well-rounded education. Haileybury's modern facilities and strong integration of technology create an optimal Learning Environment, ensuring students thrive in a dynamic and forward-thinking setting. With a unique approach to co-ed learning, Haileybury College is committed to providing an exceptional educational experience.
#8 Private School in Melbourne | Brighton Grammar School | Brighton
Securing eighth position with a Schools360 score of 89.3%, Brighton Grammar School is Bayside Melbourne’s best private boys’ school. Excelling in Learning Environment, BGS boasts world-class facilities, exceptional teaching staff, and cutting-edge technology, providing an innovative, digital-enabled educational experience. Demonstrating academic strength, Brighton Grammar achieved a median ATAR of 87.3% in 2022 which increased to 89.7% in the 2023 VCE results. The institution stands out in sports, with impressive sporting achievements and a comprehensive sports curriculum. Sustainability is a distinctive focus, reflecting the school's commitment to providing an exceptional learning environment contributing to its standing as a top-ranking institution.
#9 Private School in Melbourne | St Catherine's School | Toorak
St Catherine's School in Toorak, often considered one of the best girls’ schools in Melbourne, ranks ninth overall with a Schools360 score of 89.2%. Recognised for its Academic Excellence, the school delivers consistently high VCE results, with a median ATAR of 92.5% in 2022 and an outstanding median ATAR of 93.4% in 2023. St. Catherine's takes pride in its diverse Learning Programs, with a curriculum rich in specialised subjects, modern languages, and robust STEM offerings. The institution excels 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 commitment to Institutional Excellence is underscored by its strong governance practices and a well-established reputation, making it a top choice for a holistic and academically enriching education.
#10 Private School in Melbourne | Toorak College | Mount Eliza
Toorak College, located on the Morning Peninsula, claims tenth spot with a Schools360 Score of 88.8%. A non-denominational school, Toorak College stands out for its focus on Student Development & Wellbeing, offering comprehensive health and fitness programs, mentorship, and an inclusive environment. The school’s median ATAR in 2022 was 87.0% and in 2023 37% of students scored an ATAR above 90 with a significant percentage of graduates entering top-tier universities. Toorak College excels in Learning Environment, providing 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 ongoing commitment to sustainability contribute to its strong reputation and make it a top choice for a well-rounded education outside of the Melbourne metro area.
