Brisbane, Queensland’s vibrant capital, is home to a wide range of high schools known for their outstanding academic achievements, exceptional extracurricular offerings, and holistic approach to student development. Whether you’re seeking a private or public school, Brisbane has a rich educational landscape that can cater to the needs of every student.
As of recent educational statistics, Queensland boasts some of the highest-ranked schools in Australia. For example, in 2023, Brisbane’s high schools saw a higher than average performance in Year 12 results, with students in the city scoring an average ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) of 82.7, above the national average.
Brisbane also offers an array of pathways, including vocational education, arts programs, and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) courses, ensuring that students can pursue their passion while receiving a solid academic foundation.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top high schools in Brisbane, based on academic performance, extracurricular programs, and school culture.
1. Prince of Peace Lutheran College
Located in Brisbane’s northern suburbs, Prince of Peace Lutheran College is recognized as the best Brisbane high school, consistently ranking among the top performers in the region. The school is dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive environment, offering a well-rounded education that emphasizes both academic success and personal development.
Prince of Peace provides students with a broad array of extracurricular activities, from sports to music and drama programs, alongside an innovative curriculum. The school is particularly renowned for its strong STEM programs, encouraging students with a passion for science and technology to thrive. Recent Year 12 students have achieved outstanding results in both OP (Overall Position) and ATAR rankings. At Prince of Peace, students not only excel academically but also build essential life skills that prepare them for future success.
2. Brisbane State High School
Brisbane State High School, one of the largest and most well-known public schools in Queensland, offers exceptional educational opportunities. It regularly ranks highly in state and national academic performance surveys, particularly for its excellent results in the Queensland Core Skills (QCS) Test and the ATAR scores. The school boasts a broad range of subjects across arts, humanities, and sciences, with highly competitive programs in mathematics and languages.
Brisbane State High is also known for its outstanding extracurricular programs. Its sports teams are consistently strong in regional and state competitions, and the school has a vibrant music and arts culture that has produced many successful alumni. The school’s facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms, science labs, and sports complexes.
3. Somerville House
Somerville House, an independent private girls’ school in Brisbane, is a prestigious institution known for both academic excellence and its emphasis on developing leadership qualities in young women. The school has consistently been ranked among the top 10 in Queensland for both academic results and holistic student development. Somerville House offers a wide array of extracurricular opportunities, from sports to cultural activities, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern world.
The school’s achievements in the Queensland Academic Performance Index, along with its high ratings in national rankings, highlight its commitment to academic rigor. Somerville House also has a strong reputation for its performing arts programs, which have gained national recognition.
4. St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace
Known for its long history of academic and sporting excellence, St Joseph’s College (commonly known as Gregory Terrace) is one of Brisbane’s most prestigious boys’ schools. Its academic curriculum is renowned for its rigor, with a strong emphasis on developing critical thinking and independent learning.
Gregory Terrace also excels in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including rugby, cricket, and debate. The school has numerous academic enrichment programs, which include partnerships with universities and industry experts, ensuring students gain hands-on experience in various fields. Additionally, St Joseph’s College has a proud tradition of producing well-rounded graduates who excel in leadership and community engagement.
5. The Gap State High School
The Gap State High School, located in the northern suburbs of Brisbane, offers a robust and diverse curriculum that caters to students with varying academic interests. The school focuses on a well-rounded approach to education, combining strong academic programs with a focus on well-being and mental health.
One of the highlights of The Gap State High School is its commitment to inclusion and diversity, ensuring that every student has access to the resources they need to succeed. The school’s vocational education offerings, particularly in trades and technical fields, are highly regarded, making it an excellent choice for students looking for a pathway that integrates both academic and practical skills.
6. Brisbane Grammar School
Another top contender in Brisbane’s educational scene is Brisbane Grammar School, a prestigious independent boys’ school that consistently ranks as one of the top schools in Queensland. With a comprehensive academic program that includes a broad range of subjects and advanced-level courses, Brisbane Grammar is known for producing students who excel in university and beyond.
Brisbane Grammar’s highly acclaimed sports programs are another major attraction, with the school regularly winning state titles in various competitions. It also has a rich cultural and performing arts tradition, which provides students with a balanced education. The school’s results in both public exams and internal assessments have made it a school of choice for many families in Brisbane.
7. Churchie (Anglican Church Grammar School)
Anglican Church Grammar School, or Churchie, is one of Brisbane’s oldest and most respected independent schools. Offering a rigorous academic curriculum and a strong emphasis on character development, Churchie has earned a reputation for excellence in education, arts, and sports.
With an impressive array of extracurricular activities, including rowing, football, and theater, Churchie provides students with a well-rounded education that fosters both personal and academic growth. Its students regularly score well in the ATAR rankings, and the school has a long history of producing leaders in both academic and professional fields.
Conclusion
Choosing the right high school for your child is an important decision, and Brisbane offers some of the best educational opportunities in Queensland. Whether you’re looking for a high-performing public school, a well-rounded private institution, or a specialized program in arts, sciences, or trades, Brisbane has something to suit every student’s needs.
With a focus on academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and fostering personal growth, these schools provide a foundation that will set students up for future success.
By considering the unique offerings and strengths of each institution, parents and students can make an informed decision and embark on an educational journey that will support their goals and aspirations.