In their words
Which schools suit what your child loves?
Search for a sport, instrument, subject or worry to see which Brisbane schools people mention it at, and what they said. Tick up to three schools to compare them.
88 schools where people talk about camps, houses and school life.
Order:Best matchMost talked aboutLowest feesA to Z
How we work these numbers out
- Order. “Best match” puts schools where your exact word comes up first. “Most talked about” uses the share of reviews that mention it. Neither is a ranking of how good a school is.
- Comes up in X% of reviews is the share of the school's reviews that mention your search. The Brisbane average is the same share across all Brisbane schools.
- Speak well, mixed or raise concerns is worked out by software, using only the sentences about your search. It's right most of the time but not always, so read what people said.
- What students did comes from the sports and activities former students ticked in their review. We show it when at least 3 answered.
- Evidence is strong when 5 or more of at least 10 reviews mention it, some when 2 or more people do, and thin when only one person does.
- Facts such as fees, ATAR and enrolments come from each school's own documents. Fees cover different year levels at different schools, so compare carefully.
- Open Day Reflections come from our visits to 2026 open days. They're useful, but they reflect the school's own voice.
Brisbane State High School
Co-ed · State, competitive entry · South Brisbane
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Sport GPS (boys), QGSSSA (girls)
- Median ATAR 94.4 (2025)source
- Students 3,569
Strong evidence31 separate reviews mention it, out of 36.
Comes up in 86% of 36 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 86% Brisbane 89%
Of 48 comments: 12 speak well of it · 11 raise concerns
Review Something only students would know
One thing only students might know is how intense the battle for lunch spots can get — especially on the oval stairs or under the shade sails. Also, the tuckshop lines are no joke; if you don’t get there early, you’re waiting ages. And somehow, despite the size of the school, you always end up seeing the same few people between classes.
2 more from Brisbane State High School
Review Getting extra help
Teachers were generally approachable and willing to help if you reached out. There were also lunchtime tutorials and study sessions for subjects like Maths and English, which made a big difference. Some teachers went out of their way to check in or explain things one-on-one, but you did have to take… Read all
Teachers were generally approachable and willing to help if you reached out. There were also lunchtime tutorials and study sessions for subjects like Maths and English, which made a big difference. Some teachers went out of their way to check in or explain things one-on-one, but you did have to take the initiative. Peer support and study groups were pretty common too.
Review Subject range and curiosity
Yes, Brisbane State High offered a wide range of subject choices, from sciences and humanities to arts, music, and sport-focused electives. There were also a lot of extracurricular activities like debating, clubs, and representative sport, which helped students explore interests outside the classroom.… Read all
Yes, Brisbane State High offered a wide range of subject choices, from sciences and humanities to arts, music, and sport-focused electives. There were also a lot of extracurricular activities like debating, clubs, and representative sport, which helped students explore interests outside the classroom. Some subjects had hands-on projects or excursions, which made learning more engaging and went beyond just preparing for exams.
43 more review mentions. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for competitive-entry state schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inSt Joseph’s College (Gregory Terrace)
Boys · Catholic · Spring Hill
- Fees $26,439 a year (2026, Years 7-12)
- Sport GPS
- Median ATAR 93.35 (2024)source
- Students 1,959
Strong evidence17 separate reviews mention it, out of 18.
Comes up in 94% of 18 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 94% Brisbane 89%
Of 47 comments: 25 speak well of it · 1 raises concerns
42 more review mentions and 5 more Open Day Reflections. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for independent and Catholic schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inMansfield State High School
Co-ed · State, competitive entry · Mansfield
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 3,978
Strong evidence25 separate reviews mention it, out of 28.
Comes up in 89% of 28 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 89% Brisbane 89%
Of 42 comments: 9 speak well of it · 1 mixed · 5 raise concerns
Review Something only students would know
One unique thing only students would know about my school is that there was an unspoken rule about the best spots to hang out during breaks. Whether it was a hidden corner of the library, a specific bench with the best breeze, or a quiet hallway, everyone had their favorite spot
2 more from Mansfield State High School
Review Why we chose this school
I selected Mansfield State High because of its outstanding academic achievements and moved houses to make sure my child could conveniently take public transport to school.
Review Subject range and curiosity
Yes, my school offered a wide range of subject choices, allowing students to explore diverse interests beyond the core curriculum. It encouraged curiosity by offering extracurricular activities, hands-on projects, and special interest clubs related to different fields like science, art, and technology.… Read all
Yes, my school offered a wide range of subject choices, allowing students to explore diverse interests beyond the core curriculum. It encouraged curiosity by offering extracurricular activities, hands-on projects, and special interest clubs related to different fields like science, art, and technology. Teachers also emphasized critical thinking and real-world applications, making learning more engaging than just preparing for exams. These opportunities helped foster a deeper love for learning and encouraged students to pursue their passions.
39 more review mentions. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for competitive-entry state schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inSt Peters Lutheran College
Co-ed · Independent · Indooroopilly
- Fees $26,786 a year (2026, Years 10-12 day students)
- Sport QGSSSA (girls), AIC (boys)
- Median ATAR 90.5 (2025)source
- Students 2,302
- Boarding
Strong evidence19 separate reviews mention it, out of 19.
Comes up in 100% of 19 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 100% Brisbane 89%
Of 42 comments: 19 speak well of it · 2 raise concerns
39 more review mentions and 3 more Open Day Reflections. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for independent and Catholic schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inBrisbane Girls Grammar School
Girls · Independent · Spring Hill
- Fees $34,088 a year (2026, Years 7-12, all-inclusive)
- Sport QGSSSA
- Median ATAR 96.45 (2025)source
- Students 1,792
Strong evidence14 separate reviews mention it, out of 15.
Comes up in 93% of 15 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 93% Brisbane 89%
Of 37 comments: 17 speak well of it · 1 mixed · 2 raise concerns
36 more review mentions and 1 more Open Day Reflection. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for independent and Catholic schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inQueensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology
Co-ed · State, competitive entry · Toowong
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Median ATAR 94.75 (2025)source
- Students 1,370
Strong evidence19 separate reviews mention it, out of 22.
Comes up in 86% of 22 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 86% Brisbane 89%
Of 44 comments: 15 speak well of it · 5 raise concerns
Review Something only students would know
A privilege for the Grade 12s was that we got the cafeteria room to ourselves during lunch/afternoon tea. It was incredibly fun as it was spacious and had tables and beanbags for people to lounge on away from the hot sun outside.
2 more from Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology
Review Something only students would know
Some things unique to the school is that doing QA/IB is a lot different from ATAR curriculum, in that there is a lot of independent learning that needs to be done. Therefore, I would not recommend the school for students who struggles to understand concepts or work off/ search for their own online resources.… Read all
Some things unique to the school is that doing QA/IB is a lot different from ATAR curriculum, in that there is a lot of independent learning that needs to be done. Therefore, I would not recommend the school for students who struggles to understand concepts or work off/ search for their own online resources. Furthermore, diversity is really big in QA, so there is a huge emphasise on sharing cultures and celebrating differences, which I really enjoyed. Extracurricular activities such as robotics are also very popular in QA, and students often spend their lunch times either attending the clubs for these activities, or involving themselves in clubs for service, or even beekeeping. The SMT community is also very small and everyone basically knows eachother. Students are also very willing to help others.
Review Getting extra help
A benefit to QASMT is that it provides a lot of academic support. Tutoring with alumni, and peer mentoring during lunchtime and after school were all offered and encouraged. Teachers cared about the students' learning and would often give up lunchtimes and after-school hours to aid students in their… Read all
A benefit to QASMT is that it provides a lot of academic support. Tutoring with alumni, and peer mentoring during lunchtime and after school were all offered and encouraged. Teachers cared about the students' learning and would often give up lunchtimes and after-school hours to aid students in their education. If students weren't passing their courses, they would be required to undergo mandatory tutoring. Similarly, the school would reach out through email to students with low grades to offer help and resources.
35 more review mentions. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for competitive-entry state schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inAnglican Church Grammar School
Boys · Independent · East Brisbane
- Fees $36,232 a year (2026, Years 11-12)
- Sport GPS
- Median ATAR 90.85 (2025)source
- Students 1,895
- Boarding (boys only)
Strong evidence11 separate reviews mention it, out of 11.
Comes up in 100% of 11 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 100% Brisbane 89%
Of 37 comments: 19 speak well of it
26 more review mentions and 11 more Open Day Reflections. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for independent and Catholic schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inIndooroopilly State High School
Co-ed · State · Indooroopilly
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 2,910
Strong evidence19 separate reviews mention it, out of 23.
Comes up in 83% of 23 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 83% Brisbane 89%
Of 30 comments: 12 speak well of it · 3 raise concerns
Review Camps and excursions
My favourite excursion was to UQ as we got to talk to the entrepreneurs at the latest and greatest startups. It captured the aspect of personal growth and further learning.
4 more from Indooroopilly State High School
Review Something only students would know
A inside secret is that the best place to hang out during lunch is the hidden bench underneath Z block building, it’s quiet, shady, and the perfect spot to relax or chat with friends.
Review Experience of the sports program
Indooroopilly State High School offers a diverse range of sports programs, including rugby, netball, and swimming, with both recreational and competitive pathways—general teams like inter-house competitions are open to all, while elite teams (e.g., GPS sports) require trials, which some students find exclusionary. Parents praise the coaching quality but note a lack of options for non-competitive students, suggesting more "social sport" opportunities and clearer communication about trial criteria. The school emphasizes skill development and competitive performance (especially in GPS sports), though inclusivity and team spirit could improve, as some students feel marginalized in competitive environments. Facility investment rates 4/5, with well-maintained ovals, a gym, and a pool, though older equipment needs upgrading and shaded areas for summer sports would help.
Review Subject range and curiosity
My school offered a solid range of subject choices, especially in the sciences and humanities, but I sometimes wished there were more options in the arts or technology fields. The school encouraged curiosity through science fairs, debating competitions, and community service projects.
Review Coaching and chances to compete
The school’s coaches and programs were generally effective at developing students’ skills and offering real competition opportunities, both in-house and at higher levels. Most teams had regular training and participated in inter-school events, with some students even reaching regional competitions. Coaches were encouraging and focused on teamwork and improvement. However, less popular sports or clubs sometimes lacked resources or opportunities compared to others.
25 more review mentions. A free account opens them, and you don't need a card.
Create free accountSign inCannon Hill Anglican College
Co-ed · Independent · Cannon Hill
- Fees $21,456 a year (2026, Years 7-12, all-inclusive single tuition fee)
- Sport TAS
- Students 1,364
Strong evidence13 separate reviews mention it, out of 15.
Comes up in 87% of 15 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 87% Brisbane 89%
Of 24 comments: 7 speak well of it · 4 raise concerns
24 more review mentions. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for independent and Catholic schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inKelvin Grove State College
Co-ed · State · Kelvin Grove
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 3,646
Strong evidence17 separate reviews mention it, out of 19.
Comes up in 90% of 19 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 90% Brisbane 89%
Of 27 comments: 7 speak well of it · 7 raise concerns
Review Something only students would know
Our mascot is a bee which I think is kinda sad when it used to be a lion, major downgrade :(
1 more from Kelvin Grove State College
Review Subject range and curiosity
No nothing like this was present from what I knew, our school liked to follow the qcaa criteria and nothing beyond that scope. They cancelled a lot of trips that were traditional for years for our grade as we had 500 kids so I don’t think they were bothered to deal with all of us.
25 more review mentions. A free account opens them, and you don't need a card.
Create free accountSign inNorthside Christian College
Co-ed · Independent · Everton Park
- Fees $14,855 a year (2026, Year 12, first child, all-in)
- Students 1,258
Strong evidence13 separate reviews mention it, out of 15.
Comes up in 87% of 15 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 87% Brisbane 89%
Of 27 comments: 9 speak well of it · 3 raise concerns
27 more review mentions. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for independent and Catholic schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inBrisbane Boys' College
Boys · Independent · Toowong
- Fees $36,492 a year (2026, Years 7-12)
- Sport GPS
- Median ATAR 90.05 (2025)source
- Students 1,314
- Boarding (boys only)
Strong evidence9 separate reviews mention it, out of 12.
Comes up in 75% of 12 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 75% Brisbane 89%
Of 24 comments: 7 speak well of it
16 more review mentions and 8 more Open Day Reflections. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for independent and Catholic schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign in
Reviews come from parents and former students whose link to the school we've checked. Open Day Reflections come from our recordings at 2026 open days. Words in [brackets] were unclear, and […] marks a skipped part. They reflect the school's own voice, so read them alongside the reviews. How reviews work