Every student in NSW will eventually face a big decision: where to study for their high school years. Some will naturally attend their local public school, while others might apply for a selective school, enrol in a private institution, or attend a religious school that aligns with their family’s faith. But how do these different school types compare? What are their pros and cons, and who thrives best in each environment?
This guide will walk you through the differences in values, opportunities, drawbacks, costs, and statistics so you can make an informed decision.
Public schools, run by the NSW Department of Education, are the most common and widely accessible option. Every student is entitled to attend their local public school, and there are no tuition fees, making it the default choice for many families.
✅ Free (except for voluntary contributions and extra-curricular costs)
✅ A strong sense of local community and inclusivity
✅ A diverse student population
✅ Broad subject choices and extracurricular activities
✅ No entrance exams or selection criteria (except for specific programs)
❌ Wide variation in academic performance between different schools
❌ Resources and funding may be limited compared to private schools
❌ Class sizes can be larger, affecting individual attention
❌ Some schools may have lower academic expectations depending on location
Public schools suit students who are independent learners, socially adaptable, and happy to engage in a diverse environment. They’re also great for families who prefer a local school and value a well-rounded education with a mix of academic, sporting, and creative opportunities.
Selective schools are government-run schools designed for academically gifted students. Entry is based on the Selective High School Placement Test, taken in Year 6, and competition is fierce.
✅ High academic performance and strong HSC results
✅ Like-minded peers who are motivated and competitive
✅ Experienced teachers and enriched learning programs
✅ Excellent university admission rates
✅ Free tuition (just like public schools)
❌ Extremely competitive entrance process (around 15,000 applicants for ~4,000 places)
❌ High-pressure environment that may not suit every student
❌ Less focus on non-academic pathways (e.g., VET subjects)
❌ Limited social diversity compared to public schools
Selective schools are best suited for students who are self-motivated, academically driven, and thrive in a competitive setting. If a student enjoys academic challenges and aims for a top ATAR, this is a great fit.
Private schools, also called independent schools, charge tuition fees and often have selective admissions. They can follow different curriculums (such as the IB) and generally offer smaller class sizes and extensive extracurricular programs.
✅ Strong academic performance with excellent resources
✅ Smaller class sizes and more individualised teaching
✅ Extensive extracurricular opportunities (music, sports, leadership programs)
✅ Higher discipline and structured learning environment
✅ Networking benefits (old boys/girls networks, alumni connections)
❌ Expensive – tuition fees range from $5,000 to $40,000+ per year
❌ Some schools prioritise reputation over student well-being
❌ Potentially less social diversity compared to public schools
❌ Academic pressure and high expectations
Private schools work well for students who thrive in structured environments, enjoy extracurricular activities, and may benefit from smaller class sizes and additional academic support. They’re also a strong option for families who prioritise networking opportunities and long-term career benefits.
Religious schools (e.g., Catholic, Anglican, Islamic, Jewish) provide education with a religious foundation. Some, like Catholic systemic schools, are more affordable, while others, like elite Anglican or Islamic schools, can be as expensive as private schools.
✅ Emphasis on values, ethics, and community
✅ A structured learning environment
✅ Some (like Catholic systemic schools) are more affordable than private schools
✅ High academic performance in top-tier religious schools
✅ Strong pastoral care and moral education
❌ May have compulsory religious studies
❌ Limited diversity of worldviews and perspectives
❌ Tuition fees still apply (though usually less than private schools)
❌ Less flexibility in subject choices compared to some public/private schools
Religious schools are ideal for students from faith-based families who value moral education alongside academics. They also work well for students who prefer a structured and values-driven approach to schooling.
| School Type | Cost (per year) |
|---|---|
| Public | Free (small voluntary contributions) |
| Selective | Free (same as public schools) |
| Private | $5,000 - $40,000+ |
| Religious | $2,000 - $25,000 (depending on the school) |
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Here are some quick profiles to help guide your decision:
Ultimately, the best choice comes down to individual priorities, learning styles, and family values. No matter where you go, success comes from effort, resilience, and taking advantage of every opportunity. Good luck with your decision!