Best Schools in Adelaide: Selective & Private Options

Adelaide's school system is characterised by one of Australia's most extensive private school networks relative to city size, with approximately 40% of Adelaide students attending non-government schools — one of the highest proportions of any Australian capital. The public system nonetheless has strong selective options, and the state's educational outcomes have improved significantly over the past decade.

Selective government schools — Glenunga International High School (Glenunga) is South Australia's primary selective government school, offering an International Baccalaureate programme alongside the SACE curriculum. Entry is by academic selection and the school consistently performs among SA's top schools. Marryatville High School and Norwood Morialta High School also have selective academic streams with strong reputations.

Independent schools — boys — St Peter's College (Hackney) is Adelaide's most prestigious boys' school and one of Australia's most distinguished independent schools. Prince Alfred College (Kent Town) and Adelaide Grammar School (Adelaide CBD) are the other leading boys' independent options. Pulteney Grammar School (Adelaide CBD) provides co-educational independent education.

Independent schools — girls — Wilderness School (Medindie) and Walford Anglican School for Girls (Hyde Park) are the leading independent girls' schools. The Loreto community is represented by Loreto College (Marryatville). Seymour College (Glen Osmond) provides co-educational Anglican education.

Catholic system — Rostrevor College, Blackfriars Priory School, and Cabra Dominican College are among the most prominent Catholic secondary schools. Catholic schools in Adelaide generally offer better access to fee assistance than the independent sector.

Practical advice — Adelaide's private school market is less price-competitive than Sydney or Melbourne equivalents, with fees generally 15-25% lower at comparable schools. Early enrolment remains advisable for the most sought-after options.

This article was compiled by AI and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.