NSW Private Schools: Top Girls Schools Ranked
- March 27, 2024
- 7:49 pm
- No Comments
A Note For Parents
“People often ask me what I think about private schools like Abbotsleigh, Pymble Ladies’, and others. Pymble used to be a great school, and it still is a really good school. However, I would say the inner city comes first, then I’d put North Shore, and then the inner West below North Shore. In the North Shore, you have Abbotsleigh, Pymble Ladies’, and Ravenswood. These schools, especially Pymble Ladies’, have become very big.
If you look at the total number of enrollments, it’s huge – that’s three hundred eighty kids. What I’ve noticed over the last few years is just as it gets bigger and more populated, I think the girls aren’t taken care of as well in terms of their learning and education. Back in the day, I taught a lot of girls who went to Pymble Ladies’ and that was kind of what they told me. This is also what I’ve heard from a lot of parents these days.
Again, is it a great school? Yes, it is. Is it better than selective schools? Yes, it is. If you get a scholarship, should you go? Absolutely. But is it as good as what it was twenty years ago? No. That’s largely because it’s kind of overpopulated now. It’s got a bit too many people, and that’s kind of like the problem.
So, if you have to choose between Abbotsleigh and Pymble, obviously Abbotsleigh is the better school. The only issue is that Abbotsleigh doesn’t really give any scholarships. They give out like two scholarships a year, so it’s very difficult to get a scholarship to Abbotsleigh. But Abbotsleigh is definitely the better school of the two, mainly because it’s not as populated.
So, the schools below are ranked based on my understanding and experience.”
– Steve Xu,
Founder Scholarly
Guide Overview
Best NSW Private Schools For Girls
Inner City
- SCEGGS Darlinghurst, Darlinghurst
What sets it apart: – Commitment to fostering a strong sense of community and social justice.
– Offers a rich academic curriculum.
– Deep focus on the arts and social sciences.
– Encourages students to become thoughtful, informed, and compassionate leaders.
– Located in the vibrant heart of Sydney.
– Provides ample opportunities for cultural and community engagement.
– Enhances the educational experience through its location and community involvement.
What people are saying: “We are very fortunate to have been able to send our daughter to SCEGGS. They’ve really helped her figure herself out and be the best version of herself that she can be. Yes, it’s an expensive private school, but the important differences are the things that don’t cost money like caring so much about the girls and teaching them things that go beyond the syllabus. Some private schools only suit certain types of kids, but I think anyone would be happy at SCEGGS.”
- Ascham School, Edgecliff
What sets it apart: – Unique adoption of the Dalton Plan, an educational approach focusing on independence and individual learning.
– Encourages students to take ownership of their education.
– Fosters skills in time management and self-motivation.
– Strong academic program complemented by extensive extracurricular offerings.
– Provides a well-rounded educational experience.
– Non-denominational status.
What people are saying: “I appreciate their method of teaching their students to plan out their work and manage their time from the youngest age; wish I got that in grade school!”
North Shore
- Abbotsleigh, Wahroonga
What sets it apart:
- Strong focus on leadership and empowerment for young women
- Rich history of academic excellence
- Wide range of co-curricular programs
- Innovative approach to learning
- STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) initiatives
- Focus on global citizenship
- Prepares students for academic success and meaningful contributions to society
What people are saying: “Great facilities, teachers and peers. Lots of activities happening on and off campus to cater to all interests.”
- Pymble Ladies’ College, Pymble
What sets it apart:
- Renowned for exceptional facilities
- State-of-the-art sports, arts, and academic resources
- Emphasis on holistic education approach
- Strong academic programs balanced with sports, arts, and community service opportunities
- Extensive grounds
- Commitment to environmental sustainability
- Unique learning environment for students
What people are saying: “The school is wonderful and I highly recommend for parents to send their daughter here. I have had an amazing experience there.”
- Ravenswood School for Girls, Gordon
What sets it apart:
- Noted for individualised approach to learning
- Tailors educational journey to each student’s strengths and interests
- Strong academic program
- Excellent facilities
- Wide array of extracurricular options
- Commitment to positive psychology
- Wellbeing initiatives
- Supports holistic development of students
What people are saying: “We are so happy with the education our daughter is receiving at this incredible girls school. The Positive Education curriculum and wellbeing is extraordinary, and the facilities and teachers are amazing. The warm community and culture oozes through every part of the campus. We are so happy with how our daughter is thriving and the principal Anne Johnstone is inspirational!”
- Wenona School, North Sydney
What sets it apart:
- Recognised for innovative and forward-thinking approach to education
- Offers diverse range of global learning opportunities
- Includes exchange programs and international tours
- Focus on STEM education
- Emphasis on entrepreneurial learning
- Prepares students for challenges of modern world
- Central location in North Sydney
- Easy access to city resources
What people are saying: “Forever grateful that I went to Wenona. Only positive and happy memories from my time there.”
Inner West
- Presbyterian Ladies’ College (PLC), Croydon
What sets it apart:
- Known for high academic standards
- Vibrant music and performing arts programs
- Diverse curriculum
- Extensive language programs
- Variety of elective subjects
- Allows students to explore and develop individual interests and talents
- Commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive community
What people are saying: “Amazing school from the top down. Great emphasis on Christian values, character development. My daughter always well supported. Rich and varied growth opportunities.”
- Meriden School, Strathfield
What sets it apart:
- Strong commitment to academic excellence and sports
- Reputation for producing top athletes, particularly in swimming and other sports
- Emphasises global perspective in curriculum
- Offers numerous international programs and exchanges
- Cultivates broader worldview in students
What people are saying: “My daughter couldn’t be happier the students are great well behaved and all very friendly, there is absolutely no racism at this school the teachers go out of their way to help all students. As parents we couldn’t be happier also. Yes not cheap but all private schools not cheap you pay what you get. Five Stars.”
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