Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions for families, and Melbourne is home to some of Australia’s most prestigious private schools. Known for their outstanding VCE results, world-class facilities, and nurturing environments, these schools consistently deliver excellence in academics, sport, arts, and student wellbeing.

Whether you’re looking for an Anglican girls’ school with strong traditions, a co-educational college that balances faith and academics, or a progressive independent school that fosters innovation and creativity, Melbourne offers a wealth of choice. Each school combines academic success with holistic education, helping students grow in confidence, character, and community.

To help guide your search, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best private schools in Melbourne for 2025—each offering something unique while sharing a commitment to high-quality education in supportive, inspiring settings.

The Top 10 Private Schools in Melbourne

10. Korowa Anglican Girls’ School, Glen Iris

Founded in 1890, Korowa Anglican Girls’ School is one of Melbourne’s most respected independent girls’ schools.

Known for its innovative teaching methods and focus on developing confident, compassionate leaders, Korowa delivers excellence from Early Learning through to Year 12. The school prides itself on small class sizes, tailored learning pathways, and a holistic education that balances academic rigour with co-curricular opportunities.

9. Melbourne Grammar School, South Yarra

One of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious schools, Melbourne Grammar School is synonymous with academic success and a strong sense of tradition.

Established in 1858, this Anglican boys’ school offers outstanding VCE results, exceptional sports programs, and a thriving arts scene. With campuses catering for Prep to Year 12 for boys and co-ed from prep to Year 6, Melbourne Grammar blends rich history with modern facilities to provide an all-round education that nurtures character as well as intellect.

8. Camberwell Girls Grammar School, Canterbury

Camberwell Girls Grammar has built a reputation for excellence in girls’ education. With a strong emphasis on academic achievement, well-being, and service, the school equips students with the skills and values to thrive in a global world.

Camberwell Girls balances tradition with innovation, offering cutting-edge STEM programs alongside music, performing arts, and sport, ensuring every student has the chance to discover their passions.

7. St Andrews Christian College, Wantirna South

A co-educational school with a strong Christian ethos, St Andrews Christian College is known for combining academic excellence with faith-based values. Offering education from Prep to Year 12, the school emphasises respect, integrity, and service, helping students grow into thoughtful, community-minded adults.

With excellent VCE outcomes and a wide range of co-curricular opportunities, St Andrews provides a supportive environment where every child is encouraged to thrive.

6. Lighthouse Christian College, Cranbourne

Lighthouse Christian College is an independent, co-educational school providing a faith-based education that values character development as much as academic achievement.

With a strong focus on preparing students for life beyond the classroom, Lighthouse offers modern facilities, passionate teachers, and a nurturing community. The school is especially noted for its commitment to student wellbeing and leadership development.

5. Haileybury College, Multiple Campuses

Haileybury is one of Melbourne’s largest and most renowned independent schools, with campuses in Brighton, Berwick, Keysborough, and Melbourne CBD.

Known for its academic innovation and strong VCE results, Haileybury operates a unique parallel education model, teaching boys and girls separately in middle years while maintaining co-educational settings in the early and senior years. Its extensive co-curricular offerings include sport, performing arts, debating, and leadership programs, making it a well-rounded choice for families.

4. Camberwell Grammar School, Canterbury

Founded in 1886, Camberwell Grammar is an Anglican school for boys that has long been celebrated for its tradition of excellence.

The school provides a broad, liberal education with an emphasis on academic achievement, personal growth, and community service. Camberwell Grammar boasts modern facilities, a thriving music and arts program, and a strong sports culture, offering students a well-rounded education in a supportive environment.

3. Huntingtower School, Mount Waverley

A co-educational independent school, Huntingtower is recognised for its nurturing environment and consistently strong academic results. Founded on Christian Science principles, the school is committed to developing kindness, respect, and community spirit in its students.

With impressive facilities, small class sizes, and a focus on both academic excellence and personal development, Huntingtower offers a welcoming and inclusive education from Prep through to Year 12.

2. Fintona Girls’ School, Balwyn

Fintona Girls’ School is one of Melbourne’s top-performing independent schools, consistently achieving outstanding VCE results. With small class sizes and a personalised approach, Fintona nurtures confidence and independence in its students.

The school’s boutique size allows for close connections between staff and students, while its wide-ranging co-curricular activities—from sport and debating to performing arts—ensure girls have every opportunity to flourish.

1. Presbyterian Ladies’ College (PLC), Burwood

Consistently ranked as one of the best private schools in Melbourne, Presbyterian Ladies’ College (PLC) offers a world-class education for girls from Early Learning to Year 12. With a strong academic reputation, outstanding facilities, and an emphasis on leadership and global citizenship, PLC helps students achieve excellence in all areas of life.

The school’s International Baccalaureate (IB) program and rich co-curricular opportunities—including music, sport, and community service—make it a standout choice for families seeking a holistic education.

To see the full list of the best private schools in Melbourne, visit Better Education.

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