1. James Ruse Agricultural High School, Sydney, NSW
James Ruse is widely regarded as one of the highest-performing public high schools in Australia. As a selective government school catering to students in Years 7 to 12, it has a reliable reputation for training students with outstanding results in literacy, numeracy, and university entrance exams.
Students at James Ruse are challenged to excel in a highly competitive academic environment, but the school also emphasizes holistic development. Students have access to a wide selection of extracurricular activities spanning sports, music, debating, and community projects. These encourage students to engage with real-world challenges and to develop leadership skills that extend well beyond the classroom. Its selective entry ensures a cohort of highly motivated and driven students, fostering a culture of achievement and ambition.
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2. North Sydney Boys High School, Crows Nest, NSW
North Sydney Boys High School is another selective institution that has consistently produced top academic performers. With its rigorous curriculum for boys in Years 7 to 12, their graduates are prepared and competitive for admissions at top universities.
The school also has a wide range of extracurricular programs. With student groups for debates, sports, music, culture, and other academic interests, students have a space to explore their creative pursuits, sharpen their skills, and develop their confidence to thrive in any field.
3. Melbourne High School, South Yarra, VIC
Melbourne High School is Victoria’s premier selective government school for boys. Known for its rigorous academic program, the school prepares students for senior secondary examinations and university entrance tests by helping students develop both academic and personal skills that make them competitive university applicants.
The school encourages participation in clubs and competitions, so its graduates emerge as well-rounded and competitive. Beyond the classroom, Melbourne High provides opportunities for students to engage in sports, music, theatre, and community service.
4. Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School, South Melbourne, VIC
Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School is Victoria’s most selective government school for girls in Years 9 to 12. Its academically challenging environment has consistently produced top performers in senior examinations.
The school emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent learning through academic activities and a wide variety of extracurricular programs, including debating, performing arts, sports, and leadership opportunities. The school’s culture of excellence, combined with strong community and faculty support, ensure that students are prepared to thrive both in and outside of the classroom after graduation.
5. Perth Modern School, Subiaco, WA
Perth Modern School is Western Australia’s leading government secondary school that offers selective entry for high-achieving students. The school is known for its strong academic performance, particularly in science, mathematics, and the humanities
Beyond the academic training they provide, Perth Modern offers a vibrant co-curricular program for music, theatre, sports, and other community initiatives. With the school’s focus on developing well-rounded graduates, the supportive environment in the campus reaches beyond academics as the school’s culture of excellence extends even in extracurricular programs, helping students reach their full potential in all areas.
6. Glenunga International High School, Glenunga, SA
Glenunga International High School is South Australia’s leading government school that offers an international curriculum alongside strong academic programs. It is highly regarded for international learning opportunities which help students develop a global perspective.
Students are supported to pursue both academic excellence and personal growth as the school also encourages participation in music, sport, debating, and leadership initiatives. Glenunga International prepares students to succeed in university and beyond, shaping global leaders of the future.
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7. Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology, Toowong, QLD
Queensland Academy is a school specializing in science, mathematics, and technology. The school provides a rigorous STEM-focused curriculum for high-achieving students and has a strong record of academic results from its selective program.
Students are trained to integrate classroom learning with innovative projects, research, and problem-solving challenges. To achieve this, students are given the opportunity to participate in STEM-oriented extracurricular opportunities such as robotics, coding competitions, and science clubs. These activities help students build teamwork, leadership, and communication skills while contextualizing their academic training towards practical application.
8. Adelaide High School, Adelaide, SA
Adelaide High School is among South Australia’s most historic and respected government schools. It provides a comprehensive academic program that produces students with strong outcomes in senior examinations.
The school fosters intellectual growth while encouraging students to pursue their individual strengths. Adelaide High also prides itself with its diverse extracurricular programs geared towards interests in sports, music, debating, and community service. The school promotes a sense of belonging, leadership development, and lifelong learning, making it a popular choice for families seeking high-quality public education.
9. Rossmoyne Senior High School, Rossmoyne, WA
Rossmoyne Senior High School is known for its strong academic record and broad co-curricular offerings. The school offers a range of programs in sports, arts, and leadership that give students extensive opportunities to explore their interests and develop essential skills.
The school supports students in achieving excellence in both academics and personal development, making its graduates equipped for university and professional success in any trade.
10. Willoughby Girls High School, Willoughby, NSW
Willoughby Girls High School is a public school for girls in Sydney that consistently produces high-performing academic achievers. Although relatively less selective, its graduates nonetheless consistently deliver strong academic results in national exams.
The school encourages participation in music, sport, debating, and leadership initiatives. The school’s culture also emphasizes the value of resilience, teamwork, and confidence. Willoughby Girls High combines strong academic outcomes with a nurturing environment, making it a top choice for families in Sydney.
Prepare for Top Schools with Expert Guidance
At Aralia, our classes are built to challenge students, support their growth, and help them perform at their best in competitive academic environments.
Our experienced instructors understand what top schools expect from high-achieving students and design lessons that build strong foundations, advanced skills, and academic independence. Through small-group and one-on-one classes, students receive personalized instruction that meets them where they are and takes them further.
If you’re exploring academic pathways in Australia or internationally, our classes can help you build the preparation and confidence required to thrive.
