Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions for any family, and Sydney is home to some of the best private schools in Australia. Known for their strong academic results, world-class facilities and well-rounded co-curricular programs, Sydney’s private schools attract families who want their children to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

From girls’ boarding schools steeped in tradition to innovative co-educational campuses that embrace creativity and critical thinking, these institutions consistently rank among the top in New South Wales.

To help you navigate the options, we’ve rounded up the top 10 private schools in Sydney for 2025. Whether you’re looking for outstanding HSC results, exceptional pastoral care, or opportunities in sport, music and the arts, this list showcases the schools leading the way in excellence and opportunity.

The Top 10 Private Schools in Sydney: The 2025 Guide for Parents

10. Pymble Ladies’ College, Pymble

Pymble Ladies’ College is one of Sydney’s most picturesque and prestigious girls’ schools. Spread across sprawling park-like grounds, the campus combines tradition with state-of-the-art facilities.

Known for its strong academic results, thriving co-curricular programs and boarding options, Pymble nurtures confident, well-rounded young women ready to take on the world. The school is notably the first independent Australian school designated an Olympic Pathway School, supporting students with Olympic ambitions.

9. Ascham School, Edgecliff

With a history dating back to 1886, Ascham has long been a leader in girls’ education. It’s best known for its use of the Dalton Plan, which promotes independent, self-directed learning.

Located in the Eastern Suburbs, Ascham offers a close-knit community, boarding facilities, and an environment that encourages curiosity, resilience and academic excellence.

8. Al-Faisal College, Auburn

Al-Faisal College has rapidly grown into one of Sydney’s most dynamic schools, recognised for its strong academic outcomes and commitment to multicultural education.

With campuses across Western Sydney, it provides a nurturing, values-based environment that embraces cultural diversity while maintaining high expectations for student success.

7. Tara Anglican School for Girls, North Parramatta

Tara Anglican is a vibrant school community for girls from early learning to Year 12. Renowned as an International Baccalaureate World School and known for its supportive pastoral care and strong academic reputation, Tara also offers extensive opportunities in sport, music and the arts.

The school values character development just as highly as achievement, helping students grow into capable and compassionate leaders.

6. Reddam House, Woollahra

Reddam House takes a fresh, contemporary approach to private schooling. With a focus on creativity, critical thinking and innovation, it’s a place where students are encouraged to challenge ideas and embrace individuality.

From its Woollahra campus, Reddam has built a reputation for academic excellence, particularly in the HSC, while fostering a modern, dynamic school culture. The school has recently opened a North Sydney campus, which has gained immense traction and popularity already.

5. Knox Grammar School, Wahroonga

One of Sydney’s most recognised independent schools for boys, Knox Grammar blends tradition with innovation.

Offering day and boarding options, Knox is renowned for its academic achievements, outstanding facilities, and a thriving co-curricular program that spans sport, cadets, music and performing arts. Its leafy Wahroonga campus creates a sense of community while encouraging boys to strive for excellence.

4. Meriden School, Strathfield

Meriden is a leading independent Anglican school for girls that combines academic achievement with a strong sense of community. With a reputation for exceptional HSC results, Meriden also offers a diverse range of opportunities in sport, debating, music and service learning.

The Strathfield campus provides a warm, inclusive environment where girls can flourish academically and personally.

3. St Aloysius’ College, Milsons Point

Perched in one of Sydney’s most stunning harbourside locations, St Aloysius’ College is a Jesuit school for boys with a proud tradition of academic excellence and service.

The college encourages students not only to achieve highly but to act with integrity and contribute positively to the community. A balance of rigorous academics, sport and the arts helps create well-rounded graduates.

2. Abbotsleigh, Wahroonga

Abbotsleigh has been empowering young women since 1885 and continues to be one of Sydney’s most sought-after private schools in Sydney. The Wahroonga campus offers both day and boarding options, with excellent academic outcomes, cutting-edge facilities and a strong focus on leadership.

Abbotsleigh girls are encouraged to pursue their passions—whether in science, sport, the arts or social justice.

1. Sydney Grammar School, Darlinghurst

Sydney Grammar sits at the very top of the list, known for producing some of the nation’s highest-achieving students. Located in the heart of the city, Grammar has a long history of academic prestige, a rich cultural tradition and a wide-ranging co-curricular program.

From debating and drama to music and sport, the school encourages boys to embrace excellence in all forms and to carry a love of learning well beyond their school years.

To see the full list breakdown of private schools in Sydney, visit Better Education.

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