Private Schools and School Choices in Sydney 2026 — A Guide for Families

Schools in Sydney 2026

Sydney families have a wide range of schooling options: NSW public schools, Catholic schools, independent private schools and public selective high schools. Understanding the differences — including fees, enrolment processes, catchment areas and school cultures — helps families make an informed choice. education.nsw.gov.au

NSW Public Schools

NSW public schools are free for Australian citizens and permanent residents. Public primary and high schools are funded by the NSW Department of Education and operate under a catchment area system — your residential address determines your local public school. Selective public high schools (including Sydney Boys, Sydney Girls, James Ruse, North Sydney Boys, North Sydney Girls, Baulkham Hills and others) offer academically selective entry for Year 7 via a competitive selective entry test.

Catholic Schools in Sydney

Catholic systemic schools are administered by the Catholic Education Diocese of Sydney, Diocese of Parramatta, Diocese of Broken Bay and Diocese of Wollongong. Catholic schools charge moderate fees (typically $1,500-$6,000/year for primary, $3,000-$10,000+/year for secondary) and are open to students of all faiths, though they operate with a Catholic ethos. Enrolment is through the individual school.

Independent Private Schools in Sydney

Sydney has some of Australia's most prestigious independent schools, including Sydney Grammar School, The King's School, SCEGGS Darlinghurst, Cranbrook, Loreto Kirribilli, Newington College, PLC Sydney, Ravenswood, Knox Grammar, Shore, MLC School and others. Fees range from $15,000-$45,000+/year. Many schools operate long waiting lists — enrolment enquiries are often made at birth or before. Religious affiliation varies — Anglican, Methodist, Presbyterian, Uniting Church and non-denominational schools are among Sydney's independent sector.

How to Compare Schools in Sydney

The My School website (myschool.edu.au) provides NAPLAN results, school profiles and comparative data for all Australian schools. Compare schools by NAPLAN performance, enrolment size, ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) and staff-to-student ratios.

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