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.
70 schools where people talk about wellbeing and pastoral care.
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 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 evidence5 separate reviews mention it, out of 12.
Comes up in 42% of 12 reviews · about the Brisbane average (42%)
This school 42% Brisbane 42%
Of 13 comments: 8 speak well of it
5 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 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 evidence16 separate reviews mention it, out of 22.
Comes up in 73% of 22 reviews · 1.7× the Brisbane average (42%)
This school 73% Brisbane 42%
Of 23 comments: 7 speak well of it · 1 mixed · 3 raise concerns
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.
2 more from Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology
Review Would you recommend it?
QASMT is a school where the experience greatly depends on your character. It is fast-paced, competitive and highly academic-focused. If you thrive in these environments and are disciplined and self-motivated, I would highly recommend QA to you. Not only are you surrounded by like-minded students whose… Read all
QASMT is a school where the experience greatly depends on your character. It is fast-paced, competitive and highly academic-focused. If you thrive in these environments and are disciplined and self-motivated, I would highly recommend QA to you. Not only are you surrounded by like-minded students whose focus is all on achieving good grades, which in turn motivates you to work harder, but the school provides an abundance of academic-based opportunities such as clubs and events to increase your knowledge. On the other hand, if you tend to procrastinate or are not very disciplined, QASMT will likely be more harmful than good. It is incredibly easy to fall behind on studies due to the difficult nature of the IB program, and I, along with many others, were burnt out and sleep-deprived, particularly in the senior years. The IB program demands much more than the ATAR system- we have to write an extended essay, do philosophy (TOK) and undergo the CAS (creativity, activity, service) program on top of the six regular subjects. Additionally, the subjects offered at QA are much more restricting than other schools. Ultimately, whether I recommend QASMT depends on the person. If you work well under high pressure and can stay on top of your studies, then I would recommend it as it provides an environment where you can shine. On the other hand, it is incredibly demanding and stressful, so if you struggle with procrastination or do not care much for academics, then QASMT is not for you (and that's okay!).
Review Readiness for life after school
Very prepared. The academic rigor of the school, along with the stress, and difficulty definitely made me more than capable to face university. Most students have developed good study habits find first year of university very easy. The school also hosted and invited many career expo/experts, so students… Read all
Very prepared. The academic rigor of the school, along with the stress, and difficulty definitely made me more than capable to face university. Most students have developed good study habits find first year of university very easy. The school also hosted and invited many career expo/experts, so students were very well equipped with career advice.
18 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 inBrisbane 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 evidence14 separate reviews mention it, out of 36.
Comes up in 39% of 36 reviews · about the Brisbane average (42%)
This school 39% Brisbane 42%
Of 19 comments: 6 speak well of it · 1 raises concerns
Review Readiness for life after school
By the time I graduated, I felt academically prepared for university, especially in terms of writing and research skills. The school put a big focus on ATAR and uni pathways, so that side was well covered. However, I think there could’ve been more practical life skills taught — like budgeting, job interviews,… Read all
By the time I graduated, I felt academically prepared for university, especially in terms of writing and research skills. The school put a big focus on ATAR and uni pathways, so that side was well covered. However, I think there could’ve been more practical life skills taught — like budgeting, job interviews, or managing stress after school ends. It was a strong academic foundation, but real-world prep was a bit limited.
2 more from Brisbane State High School
Review Balancing academics and wellbeing
I believe they focus very heavily on academics which can sometimes be a detriment to students mental health and well being, but there were support networks in place like guidance conscellors and such as school.
Review Bullying and the social scene
My child didn't have any issues with bullying at BSHS, she enjoyed the very social environment at school and liked being able to meet new people in her changing classes each year. Usually when bullying occurred, a head of year would be notified and further action would be taken
16 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 inBrisbane Grammar School
Boys · Independent · Spring Hill
- Fees $37,960 a year (2026, Years 7-12)
- Sport GPS
- Median ATAR 95 (2025)source
- Students 2,021
- Boarding (boys only)
Strong evidence8 separate reviews mention it, out of 12.
Comes up in 67% of 12 reviews · 1.6× the Brisbane average (42%)
This school 67% Brisbane 42%
Of 14 comments: 8 speak well of it · 1 raises concerns
8 more review mentions and 6 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 evidence12 separate reviews mention it, out of 28.
Comes up in 43% of 28 reviews · about the Brisbane average (42%)
This school 43% Brisbane 42%
Of 18 comments: 7 speak well of it · 7 raise concerns
Review Balancing academics and wellbeing
I think that the school does an okay job, as they do provide counselling for students who are struggling with mental although the councillors do seem to have little to no effect, as previous students have said they are useless and don’t help at all.
1 more from Mansfield State High School
Review Coaching and chances to compete
My school’s coaches were dedicated to developing students, both in skill and character. They provided regular training, encouraged personal growth, and focused on teamwork. Students had opportunities to compete in school teams, and for those with exceptional talent, there were pathways to higher-level… Read all
My school’s coaches were dedicated to developing students, both in skill and character. They provided regular training, encouraged personal growth, and focused on teamwork. Students had opportunities to compete in school teams, and for those with exceptional talent, there were pathways to higher-level competitions. The coaches were supportive, pushing athletes to excel while maintaining a balanced approach, ensuring everyone could participate and improve at their own pace. Their guidance helped foster discipline, resilience, and teamwork, making the experience valuable beyond just competition.
16 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 evidence7 separate reviews mention it, out of 19.
Comes up in 37% of 19 reviews · about the Brisbane average (42%)
This school 37% Brisbane 42%
Of 11 comments: 7 speak well of it
8 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 inIndooroopilly State High School
Co-ed · State · Indooroopilly
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 2,910
Strong evidence11 separate reviews mention it, out of 23.
Comes up in 48% of 23 reviews · about the Brisbane average (42%)
This school 48% Brisbane 42%
Of 16 comments: 7 speak well of it · 1 mixed · 1 raises concerns
Review Balancing academics and wellbeing
Indooroopilly State High School effectively balances academic rigor with student well-being and character development. The school offers programs like **Peer Support** and **Respectful Relationships** to foster qualities such as empathy and integrity. For example, annual community service initiatives (e.g., fundraising for local charities) encourage generosity. Teachers often integrate "life lessons" into subjects, such as discussing ethical dilemmas in Humanities. However, some students report stress during exam periods, suggesting room for enhanced mental health support
4 more from Indooroopilly State High School
Review Bullying and the social scene
The school has clear anti-bullying policies and runs regular programs to promote inclusion and respect. From our experience, staff take bullying seriously and incidents are handled promptly. The school’s pastoral care system means there are year coordinators who keep an eye on student wellbeing. Socially, our child has had a positive experience, made good friends, and feels safe and included.
Review Getting extra help
Teachers at my school were generally very accessible if you needed extra help. Most offered after-school tutoring sessions or were willing to meet during lunch breaks. For example, my Maths Methods teacher held weekly revision classes for anyone who was struggling, and there was also a peer mentoring program where older students helped younger ones.
Review Readiness for life after school
By graduation, I felt reasonably prepared for the next steps, whether that was university or entering the workforce. The school provided career advice sessions and helped us with university applications, which was very useful. In terms of character, I learned a lot about perseverance and time management from balancing my workload and extracurricular activities. Teachers often encouraged us to work honestly and support each other, which helped foster a sense of integrity and teamwork. However, I think the school could have done more to teach practical life skills, like budgeting or managing stress, to better prepare us for independence.
Review What had the biggest impact
The biggest positive impact on me was joining the leadership team. Our support staff at Indooroopilly and working with the principle and vice principle were incredibly passionate and always encouraged us to think outside the box. They caught us how to think like a leader and through experiences taught me teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience. On the negative side, I sometimes felt stressed due to the heavy workload, especially during exam periods. There were moments when I wished there was more support for managing stress, but the leadership workload coupled with exams increased my confidence and inspired me to pursue the rigorous field of engineering.
11 more review mentions. A free account opens them, and you don't need a card.
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Girls · Independent · Manly West
- Fees $23,280 a year (2026, Years 11-12)
- Sport QGSSSA
- Median ATAR 87.6 (2025)source
- Students 1,182
Some evidence8 people mention it. Worth reading what they said.
0 of 2 reviews so far mention it
Too few reviews to compare with other schools.
Of 8 comments: 4 speak well of it
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.
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Girls · Catholic · Indooroopilly
- Fees $15,092 a year (2026, Year 12)
- Sport GBC, CaSSSA
- Median ATAR 82.82 (2025)source
- Students 953
Some evidence7 people mention it. Worth reading what they said.
Comes up in 100% of 3 reviews · 2.4× the Brisbane average (42%)
This school 100% Brisbane 42%
Of 7 comments: 2 speak well of it · 1 raises concerns
3 more review mentions and 4 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 inMt St Michael's College
Girls · Catholic · Ashgrove
- Fees $15,657 a year (2026, Year 12)
- Sport CaSSSA
- Students 870
Strong evidence5 separate reviews mention it, out of 11.
Comes up in 46% of 11 reviews · about the Brisbane average (42%)
This school 46% Brisbane 42%
Of 13 comments: 5 speak well of it · 3 raise concerns
13 more review mentions. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for independent and Catholic schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
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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 evidence8 separate reviews mention it, out of 15.
Comes up in 53% of 15 reviews · about the Brisbane average (42%)
This school 53% Brisbane 42%
Of 12 comments: 4 speak well of it · 1 raises concerns
11 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.
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Girls · Catholic · Kedron
- Fees $14,164 a year (2026, Year 12)
- Sport CaSSSA
- Median ATAR 90.55 (2025)source
- Students 985
Some evidence4 people mention it. Worth reading what they said.
0 of 1 review so far mention it
Too few reviews to compare with other schools.
Of 4 comments: 2 speak well of it
4 more Open Day Reflections. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for independent and Catholic schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
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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