Top 23 All Boys Schools Melbourne

Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions for parents and students alike. In Melbourne, all-boys schools have long been recognised for their commitment to academic excellence, strong leadership programs, and tailored teaching approaches designed to support the way boys learn best.

12 of 2024’s top 101 schools in Melbourne scoring the best VCE scores were all boys schools which is impressive given the relatively small number of boys schools in Melbourne.

Many boys schools in Melbourne boast impressive VCE results, rich extracurricular programs, and a sense of camaraderie that fosters lifelong friendships. However, with so many good options available, selecting the right school can be challenging.

To help navigate this decision, I’ve compiled a list of the Top 23 All-Boys Schools in Melbourne, ranked by median VCE study scores in 2024 and the percentage of study scores above 40 2024. Whether you’re looking for a prestigious private institution or a high-achieving public selective school, this table provides insights into Melbourne’s best-performing boys’ schools in 2024.

Choosing the right school for your son is a decision that goes beyond rankings and academic performance. Every child is unique, and the ideal school should align with their individual learning style, interests, and personal growth needs. While some boys thrive in highly structured academic environments, others may excel in schools that emphasise creativity, sports, or leadership opportunities. 

Factors such as class sizes, teaching philosophies, extracurricular programs, and school culture all play a crucial role in shaping a student’s experience. Parents should also consider the values and mission of a school to ensure it aligns with their family’s educational priorities. Visiting campuses, speaking with current students and teachers, and attending school open days can provide valuable insight into the learning environment. 

Ultimately, the best school for your son is one that not only challenges him academically but also nurtures his confidence, social skills, and aspirations for the future.

While VCE results and rankings are valuable indicators of academic performance, they should not be the sole factor in choosing a school. A high median study score or percentage of study scores above 40 may reflect strong teaching and motivated students, but it does not always capture the full educational experience. Schools with rigorous entry requirements, such as selective public schools or elite private institutions, often admit high-achieving students, which naturally boosts their results. 

Additionally, a strong focus on VCE rankings may lead some schools to prioritise exam performance over holistic development, potentially neglecting extracurricular activities, student well-being, or creative and vocational pathways. 

A school’s culture, teaching approach, support services, and opportunities beyond academics—such as leadership programs, sports, arts, and mental health support—are equally important in determining the best fit for a student. Parents should consider a school’s overall environment and how well it caters to their child’s strengths, interests, and personal growth, rather than relying solely on VCE outcomes.

Top scoring boys schools in Melbourne based on median VCE scores 2024

The ranking tables includes the following information for each school:

• Locality 
• Year 12 Fees ( 2025 ) where available
• Rank based on median VCE scores 2024 
• Percent study scores over 40 2024
• Sector – Public / Selective / Religious / Private  
• 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 categorised 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

2024 VCE Data from Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority

Potential advantages of boys’ schools

1. Tailored learning environment
   • Boys and girls often learn differently, and all-boys schools can use teaching methods specifically designed to engage male students.
   • Teachers can focus on strategies that cater to boys’ learning styles, such as hands-on activities and competitive learning environments.
2. Fewer gender stereotypes
   • In a boys-only setting, students may feel more comfortable pursuing subjects like literature, drama, or music without fear of judgment.
   • Boys may be encouraged to explore leadership roles without the influence of traditional gender expectations.
3. Stronger peer bonds & brotherhood
   • Many students in all-boys schools develop strong friendships and a sense of camaraderie.
   • A supportive “brotherhood” culture can enhance school spirit and personal development.
4. Fewer distractions from the opposite gender
   • Without the presence of girls, some students may feel less pressure to impress or conform to social expectations, leading to better focus on academics.
   • Social pressures related to relationships and dating may be reduced.
5. Specialised extracurricular opportunities
   • Schools may offer programs that specifically engage boys, such as male mentoring programs, leadership initiatives, and physical education tailored to their interests.
6. Higher academic performance in some cases
   • Studies suggest that single-sex education can benefit academic performance by allowing teachers to focus on gender-specific learning techniques.
   • Boys’ schools often implement discipline structures that encourage academic rigor.

Potential disadvantages of boys’ schools

1. Lack of social interaction with girls
   • Limited interaction with female peers may make it harder for students to develop social skills necessary for co-ed environments in university or the workforce.
   • Some students may struggle with relationships and communication with the opposite gender later in life.
2. Reinforcement of gender stereotypes
   • Without girls present, traditional masculine stereotypes may be reinforced, potentially limiting emotional expression and certain academic or career aspirations.
   • Some boys may feel pressured to conform to dominant male cultural norms rather than developing their individual identities.
3. Limited perspective on gender diversity
   • Boys in single-sex schools might miss out on different perspectives that come from learning alongside girls, affecting their ability to work collaboratively in mixed-gender teams.
   • Gender-diverse schools may better reflect real-world workplaces and social settings.
4. Less variety in teaching styles
   • While boys’ schools cater to male learning styles, they may overlook diverse teaching methods that could benefit different types of learners.
   • Some boys may thrive in a more balanced, mixed-gender environment.
5. Can feel too competitive or aggressive
   • Some boys’ schools cultivate a highly competitive culture, which might be beneficial for some students but overwhelming for others.
   • The lack of female peers might reduce softer social influences that encourage empathy and cooperation.
6. May not suit every boy
   • Not all boys benefit from an all-male learning environment. Some may prefer the social diversity and dynamics of a co-ed school.
   • Some boys feel more comfortable and perform better academically in a mixed-gender setting.

Final thoughts

Boys’ schools can offer a focused, specialised learning environment that enhances academic performance and leadership skills. However, they may also limit social interactions and reinforce gender norms, which could impact real-world adaptability.

The best choice depends on the individual student—some thrive in an all-boys setting, while others benefit from the diversity and balanced social experience of co-ed education.

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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