Private Schools in Melbourne are a great choice for both local and expat families as they offer globally recognized curricula, outstanding academics plus a nurturing environment for children. Discover our selection of the best Private Schools in Melbourne, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Why choose a private school in Melbourne?
Deciding on the right educational path for your child can be a watershed moment in both your lives. In Melbourne, enrolling your child in a private school is a choice many parents opt for, driven by several compelling reasons. Here, we explore why Melbourne’s private schools are highly regarded and how they can be a pivotal part of your child’s educational and personal development.
Comprehensive Academic Programmes
Private schools in Melbourne are celebrated for their robust academic offerings. These institutions often feature a curriculum that is both diverse and challenging, providing a wide array of subjects that cater to the varied interests and strengths of students. From STEM subjects to arts and humanities, the breadth of study ensures that every child can find their niche and excel. Advanced placement courses and International Baccalaureate programs are commonly offered, giving students a competitive edge in global university admissions.
Enhanced Learning Environments
The learning environments in private schools are meticulously crafted to enhance student engagement and success. Class sizes tend to be smaller, which allows for more personalized attention and direct interaction between students and teachers. This can be particularly beneficial for students who may need extra help or those who thrive in a more intimate learning setting. Moreover, facilities in private schools are often state-of-the-art, with modern science labs, expansive libraries, and technology-integrated classrooms that cater to a 21st-century education.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Extracurricular activities are abundant in Melbourne’s private schools, providing students with a well-rounded education. These schools offer a plethora of sports, arts, and club activities that are not always available in public schooling systems. Participation in these activities aids in the development of important life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and time management. It also allows students to pursue personal interests in depth, which can lead to enhanced college applications.
Moral and Ethical Development
Many private schools in Melbourne place a strong emphasis on the moral and ethical development of their students alongside academic growth. Schools often integrate values education into their curriculum, which helps in building character and fostering a sense of social responsibility. Whether it’s through community service initiatives, leadership programs, or daily interactions within the school community, students are encouraged to develop into conscientious, well-rounded individuals.
Networks and Community Connections
Attending a private school in Melbourne also opens doors to powerful networks. Alumni associations and professional connections facilitated by these schools can provide significant advantages in higher education and career opportunities. The community atmosphere is strong, with active parent-teacher associations and events that connect families and staff in meaningful ways, creating a supportive and interactive community.
Choosing a private school in Melbourne means investing in a comprehensive education that balances academic rigor with personal development. These institutions not only prepare students for global challenges but also instill in them a lifelong passion for learning and achievement.
How much does it cost to attend Private Schools in Melbourne?
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $10,000 | $20,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $835 | $1,670 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $400 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $1,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $11,200 | $22,400 |
Top Private Schools Melbourne 2025
Discover top International Schools in Melbourne. Use the filters to find the right fit and contact schools directly from their profiles.
St Catherine’s School
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Victoria - Melbourne
- Girls Only
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 14,120 - 89,820 aud
- Curriculum:Australian Curriculum, Other
- Foundation:1986
- Emphasis on Women's Leadership Skills
- Tailored Wellbeing Programs
- Innovative STEAM Curriculum
Annual tuition fees at St Catherine’s School range from 14,120 aud to 89,820 aud, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Methodist Ladies’ College (MLC)
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Victoria - Melbourne
- Girls Only
- 4 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 23,250 - 54,330 aud
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1882
- Community: 2200 students
- Examinations:IB Diploma
- Language:English
- Unites faith with progressive learning.
- Offers immersive boarding experiences.
- Pioneers in tech-integrated education.
Annual tuition fees at Methodist Ladies’ College (MLC) range from 23,250 aud to 54,330 aud, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Scotch College Melbourne
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Victoria - Melbourne
- Co-Education
- 4 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 38,580 - 47,877 aud
- Curriculum:Australian Curriculum
- Foundation:1845
- Language:English
- Mastery-based, personalized learning.
- Emphasis on practical life skills.
- Vibrant, hands-on arts program.
Annual tuition fees at Scotch College Melbourne range from 38,580 aud to 47,877 aud, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Insights & Updates from Private Schools
Expert Insights from Private Schools in Melbourne
Parent and Student Reviews
- October, 2025This is the best school decision we’ve ever made. The teachers inspire and encourage, and the leadership sets the highest standars. iBOS is truly outstanding in every way.
- September, 2025It’s an awesome place. I can really see how much my son has grown in his learning.
- September, 2025Karl and I just wish we have discovered your school much earlier. We would like to reiterate from parents who have sent our daughter to a private school all her life, Elea High has given her the most valuable and enriched environment to study. The first thing Grace has mentioned to us is how all the teachers spoke to her like an adult with respect instead of treating her like a little child. This made her feel she is worthy and made her feel comfortable in engaging. This is something she said she never experienced in her old school! Private schools may have all the fancy facilities and traditional values but what your school offered is what’s important in school life – respect and the right environment!
- September, 2025The TNIS community is warm and welcoming. She loves the school and is truly happy here. The teachers are very kind, and her classmates adore her! Yoyo’s language skills have improved rapidly, and I’m so glad we chose TNIS.
- September, 2025TNIS is more than a school—it’s an inclusive and nurturing international community. Our child has flourished here with newfound confidence, lifelong friendships, and continuous growth. As parents, we’ve always felt supported by the school’s professionalism. We wholeheartedly recommend TNIS to families worldwide!
- September, 2025They have literacy support where you get to read books and answer questions which help your English.
- September, 2025I spent two months at the school and I had a very positive experience. I was warmly welcomed by both the teachers and the students and immediately felt at home. All my requests regarding the timetable were taken into account, and the individual students are also very well supported in other areas. I had a wonderful time at the school and am grateful that I was accepted at such short notice.
- September, 2025NSA was a life changing experience for our family. Our son is living a sober, happy, healthy life, thanks in part to the skills he learned and nurturing he received at NSA, as well as the hard work he has done on his own since returning from NSA. We are forever grateful that the fates directed us to NSA for support during a difficult period. Highly recommend!
- September, 2025NSA is an amazing school and saved my sons life. It is a place where you can send your son and know he will be well taken care of and loved. From the minute we visited the school to when my son graduated, we were always met with big smiles and hugs. The staff is top notch and have the patience of saints. The location is beautiful and easy to get to from San Jose. I would highly recommend NSA.
- September, 2025I really can’t say enough great things about New Summit Academy. My son was there 5 years ago and I think the school helped contribute to the happy person he is today. The staff are all so wonderful, the setting is beautiful, and the kids really have fun and at the same time learn a lot about themselves. And, they go to high school too! I have no hesitation in recommending NSA.
- September, 2025Our son’s experience at NSA was transformative in so many ways. The unique setting and culture, healthy lifestyle and routines, *great* therapists, focused academics, and candid peer feedback really helped him to mature and reset as he goes off to high school. The experience also improved our family relations and communication.
We’re grateful! - September, 2025I think it’s the best English School in Madrid. I love it, and I know my daughter is well while she’s there.
Summary
Private schools in Melbourne offer a dynamic blend of rigorous academics, personalized learning environments, and expansive extracurricular activities, all designed to foster both intellectual and personal growth. These institutions provide students with unique opportunities to develop academically and socially through enhanced educational programs and strong community networks.