Top 20 Private Schools in Sydney
Discover Sydney's best private schools. Our Schools360 rankings showcase the top 20 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pymble Ladies’ College | 93.6% | Pymble | Girls | 90.9% | 54% | 38.6% | 21 |
| 2 | Loreto Kirribilli | 93.2% | Kirribilli | Girls | - | 62% | 46.3% | 12 |
| 3 | St Catherine’s School | 92.9% | Waverley | Girls | 91.5% | 57% | 42.6% | 14 |
| 4 | Abbotsleigh | 91.3% | Wahroonga | Girls | 94.5% | 67% | 46.9% | 8 |
| 5 | MLC Burwood | 91.1% | Burwood | Girls | 91.7% | 27.0% | 47 | |
| 6 | Kambala Girls | 90.8% | Rose Bay | Girls | - | 55% | 42.4% | 15 |
| 7 | The Scots College | 90.0% | Bellevue | Boys | 85.5% | 33% | 19.7% | 75 |
| 7 | Knox Grammar School | 90.0% | Wahroonga | Boys | 89.0% | 33.7% | 29 | |
| 7 | Presbyterian Ladies College | 90.0% | Croydon | Girls | - | 50% | 32.4% | 33 |
| 7 | Ravenswood School for Girls | 90.0% | Gordon | Girls | 90.5% | 51% | 28.0% | 43 |
| 11 | SHORE Sydney CoE Grammar | 89.2% | North Sydney | Boys | 90.4% | 53% | 29.0% | 38 |
| 12 | The King’s School | 88.1% | Parramatta | Boys | 84.3% | 37% | 29.6% | 36 |
| 13 | Ascham School | 87.9% | Edgecliff | Girls | - | 57% | 40.2% | 19 |
| 14 | SCEGGS Darlinghurst | 87.7% | Darlinghurst | Girls | - | 60% | 44.4% | 11 |
| 15 | Wenona School North Sydney | 87.6% | North Sydney | Girls | - | 47% | 34.9% | 26 |
| 15 | Cranbrook School | 87.6% | Bellevue Hill | Boys | 89.0% | 44% | 29.2% | 36 |
| 17 | Queenwood | 86.9% | Mosman | Girls | - | 61% | 37.4% | 22 |
| 18 | Sydney Grammar School | 85.8% | Darlinghurst | Boys | - | 82% | 50.7% | 6 |
| 18 | St Ignatius’ College | 85.8% | Lane Cove | Boys | - | - | 26.9% | 48 |
| 20 | St Aloysius Milsons Point | 85.1% | Milsons Point | Boys | 93.0% | 61% | 42.1% | 16 |
*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 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 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 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 | Wellbeing | Sports | Art & 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 | The Scots College | 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 8.5 | 10 | 9.5 |
| 7 | Knox Grammar School | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 8.5 | 10 | 8 |
| 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 |
| 11 | SHORE Sydney CoE Grammar | 9.5 | 8.5 | 10 | 9 | 8.5 | 10 | 9 |
| 12 | The King’s School | 7.5 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 10 | 9 |
| 13 | Ascham School | 10 | 8 | 7.5 | 9 | 8.5 | 8 | 9 |
| 14 | SCEGGS Darlinghurst | 10 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8.5 | 7.5 | 10 |
| 15 | Wenona School North Sydney | 9 | 8.5 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8.5 |
| 15 | Cranbrook School | 8 | 9 | 9.5 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 8.5 |
| 17 | Queenwood | 10 | 8.5 | 7.5 | 8 | 9 | 8.5 | 8.5 |
| 18 | Sydney Grammar School | 10 | 9 | 6.5 | 8.5 | 9 | 7.5 | 9.5 |
| 18 | St Ignatius’ College | 8 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 |
| 20 | St Aloysius Milsons Point | 10 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8.5 | 8 | 9 |
#1 Private School in Sydney | Pymble Ladies College | Pymble
Sydney’s top ranked private school is Pymble Ladies’ College, which epitomises comprehensive student development with a Schools360 score of 93.6%. Pymble Ladies’ College delivers consistently high academic results, in 2022 their median ATAR was 90.9% and in the 2023 HSC results their median ATAR was 90.45%. 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 Private 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 Sydney, 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. 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 Private 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%, followed by 91.05% in the 2023 HSC results. 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 Private 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% in 2022 and 93.5% in 2023, 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 Private School in Sydney | MLC School | Burwood
MLC School, 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% in 2022, the school emphasises a strong academic foundation. In 2023, 46% of the school’s HSC cohort were placed on the HSC Distinguished Achievers list. Beyond academics, MLC School 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 has a well-earned position as one of Sydney’s distinguished private educational institutions.
#6 Private School in Sydney | Kambala | Rose Bay
In sixth position is Kambala Girls with a Schools360 score of 90.8%. The institution maintains a strongreputation 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 (=) Private School in Sydney | The Scots College | Bellevue
The Scots College proudly maintains equal position as the top private boys school in Sydney with a Schools360 score of 90.0%. In 2022, the school’s median ATAR was 85.5%, the school has not published its 2023 median ATAR result. Renowned for its sporting excellence, Scots offers a comprehensive sporting program including elite athlete support. Scots boasts state-of-the-art facilities, modern learning spaces, and ample recreational areas, the campus fosters an environment conducive to both academic and personal growth. Scots College places a significant emphasis on holistic student development, nurturing leadership qualities and individual talents, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their future endeavors. This institution's commitment to comprehensive character development makes it a preferred choice for families seeking a top-tier educational experience for their boys.
#7 (=) Private School in Sydney | Knox Grammar School | Wahroonga
Knox Grammar School in Wahroonga is one of the top ranked boys’ schools in Sydney with a Schools360 score of 90.0%. This boys' school affiliated with the Uniting Church excels in both academics and co-curricular activities. In 2023 Knox Grammar’s median ATAR increased to 93.0%, up from 89.0% in 2022. Knox Grammar boasts strong programs in sports, arts, and music, offering students a diverse platform for personal development. The institution's impressive facilities cater to various disciplines, promoting a holistic educational experience. Its consistent academic excellence combined with an array of extracurricular opportunities solidifies Knox Grammar's reputation as one of Sydney’s top choices for a private boys school.
#7 (=) Private 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, with 47.5% of students achieving an ATAR score >90 in the 2023 HSC results. 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 (=) Private 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. Ravenswood did not publish its 2023 HSC cohort median ATAR score, however its IB cohort achieved an equivalent median ATAR of ~95. 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.
#11 Private School in Sydney | SHORE Sydney CoE Grammar | North Sydney
SHORE Sydney CoE Grammar is ranked the third best boys’ school in Sydney and eleventh overall with a Schools360 score of 89.2%. SHORE delivers consistently high HSC results, achieving a median ATAR of 90.4% in 2022 and 91.9% in 2023. This boys' school affiliated with the Anglican Church stands out as one of the top-performing academically. In addition to its academic excellence, SHORE boasts a robust sporting program complemented by an impressive campus with excellent facilities. The institution prides itself on fostering a holistic learning environment where students can thrive academically while engaging in a diverse range of sports and extracurricular activities. SHORE has built a well-earned reputation as one of Sydney’s best private boys schools.
#12 Private School in Sydney | The King’s School | Parramatta
Ranking twelfth, The King’s School has a Schools360 score of 88.1%. The King’s School performs consistently well on NAPLAN, in 2022 its median ATAR was 84.3% which increased to 87.5% in the 2023 HSC results. As an Anglican boys' school, it excels not only academically but also in fostering student development, leadership, and independence. Renowned for its exceptional sporting achievements, The King’s School boasts impressive facilities and a track record of sporting success. Its remarkable campus coupled with a strong reputation and prestige makes it a standout institution, contributing significantly to student growth and success.
#13 Private School in Sydney | Ascham School | Edgecliff
With a Schools360 score of 87.9%, Ascham School in Edgecliff is ranked 13th and has established itself as a renowned institution, excelling in various domains. Whilst Ascham does not publish its median ATAR, the school is widely acknowledged for its strong academic foundation, with over 60% of students achieving an ATAR score >90 in the 2023 HSC results. 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.
#14 Private School in Sydney | SCEGGS Darlinghurst | Darlinghurst
In 14th 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.
#15 (=) Private School in Sydney | Wenona School | North Sydney
Wenona School, ranking equal 15th, exemplifies academic excellence and a commitment to student well-being in North Sydney. With an impressive Schools360 score of 87.6%, Wenona School is renowned for its strong emphasis on academics, personal development, and leadership initiatives. The school's dedication to nurturing the holistic growth of its students is evident through its robust programs focusing on character development and well-being. In academics, Wenona consistently achieves commendable results, with a median ATAR of 90.15% in 2023. Wenona places a strong emphasis on technology integration in the learning environment, preparing students for the challenges of a technologically advanced world.
#15 (=) Private School in Sydney | Cranbrook School | Bellevue Hill
Equal 15th position is Cranbrook School which maintains an impressive Schools360 score of 87.6% and a commendable median ATAR of 89.0% in 2022, in 2023 the median ATAR for the school’s IB cohort was 91%. As an Anglican boys' school, Cranbrook stands out for its strong academic programs and a commitment to holistic education. The institution boasts a picturesque campus and offers comprehensive co-curricular programs that cater to individual learning needs. 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.
#17 Private School in Sydney | Queenwood | Mosman
Queenwood School in Mosman is ranked the 17th best private school in Sydney with a Schools360 score of 86.9%. Known for delivering consistently high NAPLAN and International Baccalaureate (IB) results, Queenwood emphasises a well-rounded education that goes beyond traditional academic metrics. While the school did not disclose its HSC median ATAR, the outstanding achievement of 63% of IB students scoring an ATAR above 95 underscores the institution's commitment to academic rigor. Queenwood also distinguishes itself through its robust programs dedicated to student development and wellbeing, with a particular focus on personal growth. Notably, the school boasts a unique reading program that contributes to the overall enrichment of students. Queenwood stands as a testament to educational excellence, nurturing both the intellectual and personal dimensions of each student's journey.
#18 (=) Private School in Sydney | Sydney Grammar School | Darlinghurst
Sydney Grammar School, situated in Darlinghurst, holds equal 18th place with a Schools360 score of 85.8%. This non-denominational boys' school, although not disclosing a median ATAR, saw an outstanding 82% of its HSC students achieve ATARs above 90 in 2022 and 80% above 90 in 2023. It stands as the only private boys' school in Sydney to be listed among the Sydney Morning Herald's top ten schools for HSC success. The institution is renowned for nurturing leadership skills, fostering independence, and encouraging creativity among its students. It's recognised for maintaining high standards in academics and focusing on holistic development.
#18 (=) Private School in Sydney | St Ignatius’ | Lane Cove
St Ignatius’ College in Lane Cove shares 18th place with a Schools360 score of 85.8% . This Catholic boys' school has a distinct reputation for its emphasis on sustainability initiatives, boasting 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.
#20 Private School in Sydney | St Aloyisius’ | Milsons Point
Our top 20 is rounded out by St Aloysius Milsons Point, which achieved a Schools360 score of 85.1%. This Catholic 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. Te 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.
