101 Best High Schools In Melbourne – Best 101 Overall, Top 101 Public & Top 101 Private Schools VCE 2024

As a parent in Melbourne, I’ve spent a lot of time researching schools for my child. During this process, like many parents I’ve looked at the best schools in Melbourne based on academic rankings. These rankings are undoubtedly important – they give a picture of a the cohort’s academic performance each year and while results aren’t everything, they do open doors, especially to higher education.

This article presents a ranking of the top 101 schools in Melbourne overall, the top 101 public schools in Melbourne and the top 101 private schools in Melbourne based on VCE scores.  In some cases I’ve also included a link to our tour articles and / or podcast interviews with parents, ex-students and principals that may give a more rounded view on what the school is like and if it’s a good fit for your child.

See tables for rankings:

• Top 101 best schools Melbourne 2024 ( all sectors – public / private / selective )
• Top 101 best public schools in Melbourne 2024
• Top 101 best private schools in Melbourne 2024
• See how rankings changed between 2023 to 2024

How to choose the best school in Melbourne

While VCE scores are an easy way to compare schools, it’s not the whole story. Academic rankings are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to choosing the right school. There are many other factors to consider, like school culture, extracurricular activities, and teaching approaches. I encourage all parents to use the information as a starting point, not the final word. Remember to visit schools, talk to other parents, ask our community at the Melbourne Schools Facebook Group and trust your instincts about what’s best for your child.

Note that VCE scores also have limitations as a comparative tool.  For example:

1. Results may be influenced by socioeconomic factors, with schools with families coming from higher economic status often correlate with higher scores.
2. High-performing schools may have a significant proportion of students receiving external tuition.
3. High-performing schools may select students based on an entry exam
4. Some schools offer both the IB diploma and VCE in year 12, so VCE scores don’t reflect the whole cohort

Top scoring schools in Melbourne based on median VCE scores 2024

The ranking tables includes the following information for each school:

• Year 12 Fees where available
• Rank based on median VCE scores
• Percent study scores over 40
• Sector / Co-educational or single-sex
• Links to tour articles and / or podcast interviews

Disclaimers

Fees: Fees are based on information is publicly available at time of publishing, they may or may not include levies and taxes and other additional fees. Fees change, please check for accuracy if you are interested in the school. 

Sectors:  The distinction between private and religious is not clear cut.  I have categorized as I see them. 

• Jewish / Christian / Catholic / Private Religious – non-government and  seeming to have a significant religious component to education
• Private – non-government, may be based on a religion but don’t seem to have a significant religious component to education

Top 101 best schools in Melbourne ( all sectors – public / private / selective )

Year 12 fee data correct at the time of publication. Data is collected from publicly available information and includes tuition fees only. Fees may change, check with individual schools for up to date data.

While VCE scores provide valuable insight, choosing the right school for your child involves considering a multitude of factors. Here are nine key aspects to evaluate in your search:

1. Child’s Individual Needs: Every child is unique, with their own strengths, challenges, interests, and learning styles. Understanding your child’s specific needs—whether they require additional academic support, excel in certain subjects, or need a nurturing environment to build confidence—is crucial in selecting a school that will provide the right level of attention and encouragement.
2. Facilities: The quality and range of a school’s facilities can significantly impact a child’s learning experience. Modern classrooms, science labs, libraries, sports facilities, and creative arts spaces can enhance education by providing students with the resources and environments needed to explore different areas of interest and develop new skills.
3. Resources: Beyond physical facilities, resources include access to technology, learning materials, specialised programs and support services. Well-resourced schools can offer a broader and more enriched educational experience, helping students to thrive academically and personally.  This may be especially relevant if you have a child who is academically ahead or needs learning support.
4. Student-to-Teacher Ratio: The student-to-teacher ratio indicates how many students there are for each teacher. Lower ratios often mean more personalised attention for each student, allowing teachers to better understand and cater to individual learning needs. This can lead to more effective teaching and a stronger student-teacher relationship.
5. Extracurricular Activities: Extracurricular activities like sports, arts, clubs and other programs provide students with opportunities to explore interests outside of the academic curriculum. Think about the activities your child enjoys and ensure the school you choose offers a wide range of options. It’s also important to evaluate the quality of these programs—make sure they are well-organised and that your child will benefit from them fully.
6. Location and Cost: When selecting a school, location is key—it impacts commute time, daily stress, and the availability of extracurricular activities. A nearby school can allow for more focus on studies and easier transitions, especially if it’s close to your child’s primary school.

Cost is another crucial factor. Whether considering private or public education, weigh the financial commitment against the value offered, ensuring it fits comfortably within your budget. Keep in mind that central schools are often pricier, while public schools generally cost less than private ones.

• Well-Being Support: A school’s commitment to student well-being is crucial for fostering a supportive and healthy learning environment. This includes access to counsellors, mental health resources, anti-bullying programs, and a focus on social-emotional learning. Schools that prioritise well-being help students develop resilience, emotional intelligence and coping strategies.

• Culture: School culture, which includes the values, traditions, norms, and social environment, is a vital aspect to consider as it will shape your child’s daily experience. To understand it better, visit the school, explore its mission statement, and learn about its core values and religious affiliations, if any.

Remember there’s no “perfect” school – focus on finding the best fit for your family.

By considering these factors holistically, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision that sets your child up to thrive both academically and personally.

Interested in similar content? Check out our related articles:

• Private School Wait Lists – What You Should Know
• Melbourne Selective Schools – The Ultimate Guide 2024

About Author

Crystal Wong

Crystal Wong is an SEO Consultant, digital marketer and founder of Melbourne Schools.

Mum to the best little girl. Lover of cats, coffee and books.

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