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.
87 schools where people talk about music, drama and art.
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 (84%)
This school 86% Brisbane 84%
Of 54 comments: 20 speak well of it · 4 raise concerns
Review Experience of arts activities
My child was part of the orchestra, as well as studying drama for a few years. She really enjoyed the orchestra, but there definitely wasn't such a big focus on arts as there were sports.
2 more from Brisbane State High School
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.
Review Would you recommend it?
Yes, I would recommend Brisbane State High School. It offers a lot of opportunities, both academically and through extracurricular activities like sport, music, and clubs. The school has a strong reputation, great facilities, and a diverse student community. It can be competitive and fast-paced, but… Read all
Yes, I would recommend Brisbane State High School. It offers a lot of opportunities, both academically and through extracurricular activities like sport, music, and clubs. The school has a strong reputation, great facilities, and a diverse student community. It can be competitive and fast-paced, but if you’re motivated, it’s a great environment to grow in.
48 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 inIndooroopilly State High School
Co-ed · State · Indooroopilly
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 2,910
Strong evidence20 separate reviews mention it, out of 23.
Comes up in 87% of 23 reviews · about the Brisbane average (84%)
This school 87% Brisbane 84%
Of 46 comments: 18 speak well of it · 1 raises concerns
Review Experience of arts activities
He did when he was in grade 9 and 10, however in grade 11 and 12 he focused on the sciences and math subjects as they scaled well and he seemed to be more interested in them.
2 more from Indooroopilly State High School
Review Chances to take part in the arts
It was not applicable to me as I did not participate in these arts programs opportunities but do know students that have and they throughly enjoyed the program.
Review Expectations versus reality
The school generally meets or exceeds academic expectations, particularly in STEM and arts. For instance, the **Enhanced Learning Program (ELP)** challenges high-achievers with advanced coursework, while vocational education (VET) provides practical pathways. Some students note uneven teaching quality… Read all
The school generally meets or exceeds academic expectations, particularly in STEM and arts. For instance, the **Enhanced Learning Program (ELP)** challenges high-achievers with advanced coursework, while vocational education (VET) provides practical pathways. Some students note uneven teaching quality in elective subjects, but overall, the school’s strong NAPLAN and ATAR results reflect its academic commitment.
38 more review mentions. A free account opens them, and you don't need a card.
Create free accountSign 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 (84%)
This school 86% Brisbane 84%
Of 39 comments: 14 speak well of it · 5 raise concerns
Review Chances to take part in the arts
Even though subjects like music and drama weren't an option, the school encouraged artistic expression through annual events such as the Battle of the Bands and Festival of Creativity, where students performed instrumental pieces, showcased their paintings etc. Due to a high number of applications, auditions… Read all
Even though subjects like music and drama weren't an option, the school encouraged artistic expression through annual events such as the Battle of the Bands and Festival of Creativity, where students performed instrumental pieces, showcased their paintings etc. Due to a high number of applications, auditions were usually required, but I don't know anyone who applied and didn't get accepted. I was part of a creative writing club, with sessions held every Friday afternoon. I, along with other members, wrote stories and shared ideas together over the course of one to two hours. The school provides opportunities to create and establish clubs if it has enough support, so this is another way that students can be involved in the arts.
2 more from Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology
Review Chances to take part in the arts
There were no drama clubs. However, the school does encourage art production as they host a popular festival of creativity once a year, which encourages students to submit artwork and to perform dances. The school also has a strings and band ensemble.
Review Readiness for life after school
I was well prepared for university after high school. In fact, my first year at university felt like a breath of fresh air in comparison to my time at QASMT. For example, at QA, due to the IB, we had to undergo the CAS program. This meant that we were required to have creative hobbies (writing, art… Read all
I was well prepared for university after high school. In fact, my first year at university felt like a breath of fresh air in comparison to my time at QASMT. For example, at QA, due to the IB, we had to undergo the CAS program. This meant that we were required to have creative hobbies (writing, art etc.), do activity (sports) and service (volunteering, charity work etc.) on top of school. This helped to enhance personal and interpersonal development in all areas rather than just academics, which aided in preparation for university. If you're able to make it through QA's rigorous program, you'll be prepared for life after high school!
30 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 evidence18 separate reviews mention it, out of 19.
Comes up in 95% of 19 reviews · about the Brisbane average (84%)
This school 95% Brisbane 84%
Of 44 comments: 26 speak well of it
40 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 inMansfield State High School
Co-ed · State, competitive entry · Mansfield
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 3,978
Strong evidence20 separate reviews mention it, out of 28.
Comes up in 71% of 28 reviews · about the Brisbane average (84%)
This school 71% Brisbane 84%
Of 33 comments: 16 speak well of it · 1 mixed
Review Experience of arts activities
My child was a member of the school band and also greatly enjoyed it. He got to play many different enjoyable songs and showcased his ability at many different stages outside and inside of school. The teachers are extremely talented and there is a large variety of instruments for the students to play.
2 more from Mansfield State High School
Review Chances to take part in the arts
My school offered diverse arts programs, including music, drama, and visual arts, fostering creativity with supportive teachers and opportunities.
Review Support for students who struggle
There is an okay level of support for students who struggle with learning, as the school only provides them with a teacher to support them. They do not provide much encouragement to try to learn and just offer them guidance and support.
25 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 evidence14 separate reviews mention it, out of 18.
Comes up in 78% of 18 reviews · about the Brisbane average (84%)
This school 78% Brisbane 84%
Of 33 comments: 21 speak well of it · 1 mixed · 1 raises concerns
32 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 inNorthside Christian College
Co-ed · Independent · Everton Park
- Fees $14,855 a year (2026, Year 12, first child, all-in)
- Students 1,258
Strong evidence14 separate reviews mention it, out of 15.
Comes up in 93% of 15 reviews · about the Brisbane average (84%)
This school 93% Brisbane 84%
Of 29 comments: 10 speak well of it · 1 mixed · 2 raise concerns
29 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 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 evidence14 separate reviews mention it, out of 15.
Comes up in 93% of 15 reviews · about the Brisbane average (84%)
This school 93% Brisbane 84%
Of 24 comments: 11 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 inQueensland Academy for Creative Industries
Co-ed · State, competitive entry · Kelvin Grove
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 437
Some evidence14 people mention it. Worth reading what they said.
Comes up in 100% of 5 reviews · about the Brisbane average (84%)
This school 100% Brisbane 84%
Of 34 comments: 15 speak well of it · 1 raises concerns
Review Chances to take part in the arts
They have so so many opportunities for the arts. They have amazing art studios with great resources. They have drama studios and a great theatre. They have good film technology. For music they have an array of instruments and recording studios which students even used to produce their own music. They have showcase nights for all the arts.
11 more from Queensland Academy for Creative Industries
Review Chances to take part in the arts
In Year 11, students can choose to specialise in one or two arts subjects. Being a music student, I thought the opportunities were really cool (eg; getting a professional string quartet to play your composition) and loved the recording studio. Other disciplines also always had their own events like theatre performances and art showcases. It was nice to see other students work. Albeit, it is important to note that while there is this creative freedom, it is still limited by the IB guidelines and assessments.
Review Year 12 subject choices
I did Math AA HL, Lang and Lit HL, French ab initio, Dance HL, Psychology HL, ESS SL and TOK. I liked all my subjects, I wish I did a different science but I really enjoyed ESS because the environment is very important to me but other sciences would help me more in uni. I think I liked learning all the subjects and I was good at them.
Review Subject range and curiosity
They had a good range of subjects and once I wanted to study something they didn't offer and they supported me to do this online. I changed my mind but they are very open at getting students to achieve their goals however they need learning to be. They have great support staff to discuss careers and goals which help students follow their passion and this is encouraged. They will help people find opportunities. They have intensives with universities to experience the course. For dance they had numerous guest choreographers to teach different styles and cultural dances to expand our horizons with dance.
Review Preparing for entry
I did not do any specific preparation. I just made sure I understood everything I was currently doing at school and read through all the details to be as prepared as I could be. I think I discussed my dance in my interview as well as my other commitments like drama and stem club, which may have helped me.
Review What had the biggest impact
I had so many amazing teachers that really went out of their way to make sure everyone had a good learning experience. They would volunteer their personal time to set up practice exam sessions and consultations. The teachers took time to notice the people in their class and what might help them. The dance program was very special to me, I was originally very anxious to perform but QACI nurtures and encourages you to express your creativity.
Review Camps and excursions
QACI only had one camp for everyone at the start of year 10 which I did not love. But we also went to Dreamworld for a science excursion which was fun. The dance students also did trips to see performances which was really great. I liked when we went to QUT and joined in with the uni program.
Review Year 12 subject choices
English SL, Mandarin Ab Initio, Psychology HL, Biology HL, Math AI SL, Music HL I wish I had done a different language instead of Mandarin, as it was very difficult. However, I loved the teacher and the class so it’s not a deep regret. I also wish I took biology at an SL level or did chemistry instead, because I later realised it was not a strong subject of mine.
Review Readiness for life after school
Partaking in the IB, I think I felt very prepared. In my opinion, the workload I do at uni now is quite similar to the IB workload that I did during high school. Before we graduated, the school did make every student consult the guidance counsellor to see what our uni plans were and talk about pathways so I think it did help people feel somewhat prepared.
Review Subject range and curiosity
Specialising in the arts, the school offered numerous choices for art disciplines such as music, visual arts, dance, film, design tech, etc. For other groups, it might’ve been more scarce. For Group 3 (humanities) students only had the option of picking Psychology or Business or Environmental Systems, so that may have limited people’s interests.
Review Would you recommend it?
I would recommend this school if you would like to be surrounded by like-minded peers with very nice facilities. Specialising in the arts, there are many resources for these students - as a music student myself, I loved the recording studio. During my time however, there were a lot of staff changes which made learning a bit difficult, although I could tell teachers were trying their best. If you are more academically inclined and lean towards stem subjects, I would recommend QASMT more.
Review What had the biggest impact
The biggest impact on me was probably the connections you make. I made a lot of close friends at QACI and there is a lot of events surrounding “school spirit” that make your time fun. I also am grateful for opportunities that I wouldn’t have had elsewhere, such as recording in a music studio, helping my visual art friends paint, and learning the IB program.
13 more review mentions and 9 more Open Day Reflections. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for competitive-entry state 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 evidence13 separate reviews mention it, out of 15.
Comes up in 87% of 15 reviews · about the Brisbane average (84%)
This school 87% Brisbane 84%
Of 19 comments: 7 speak well of it
18 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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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 evidence11 separate reviews mention it, out of 12.
Comes up in 92% of 12 reviews · about the Brisbane average (84%)
This school 92% Brisbane 84%
Of 21 comments: 9 speak well of it
17 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 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 evidence10 separate reviews mention it, out of 12.
Comes up in 83% of 12 reviews · about the Brisbane average (84%)
This school 83% Brisbane 84%
Of 22 comments: 11 speak well of it
17 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.
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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