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.
80 schools where people talk about academic pressure and results.
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 evidence33 separate reviews mention it, out of 36.
Comes up in 92% of 36 reviews · about the Brisbane average (71%)
This school 92% Brisbane 71%
Of 62 comments: 20 speak well of it · 6 raise concerns
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.
2 more from Brisbane State High School
Review Expectations versus reality
My expectations were met academically in terms of the grades my child achieved and the level of support from teachers in terms of draft feedback and if my child reached out to them to ask questions.
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.
55 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 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 evidence22 separate reviews mention it, out of 22.
Comes up in 100% of 22 reviews · about the Brisbane average (71%)
This school 100% Brisbane 71%
Of 62 comments: 18 speak well of it · 7 raise concerns
Review Preparing for entry
I did not do any specific preparation solely for the entrance exam. However, in the years leading up to the exam, I took tutoring classes including both private and public ones like Kumon. As the exam tested academic areas including writing and mathematics skills, I would say tutoring was especially helpful.
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 What had the biggest impact
Teachers had a massive impact on the students, and it was obvious through the students' grades. For example, in Grade 10, one of the science classes had a much higher fail rate than the rest of the other classes for an exam. The difference? The teacher. I had friends from that class improve substantially… Read all
Teachers had a massive impact on the students, and it was obvious through the students' grades. For example, in Grade 10, one of the science classes had a much higher fail rate than the rest of the other classes for an exam. The difference? The teacher. I had friends from that class improve substantially the following term when their teacher left and a new one came in. Although my experience wasn't as dramatic, teachers were still incredibly important. While some teachers helped me understand the concept immediately, others like my chemistry teacher were confusing and I ended up having to resort to external tutoring to understand. It was also a shame that the school had a high staff turnover rate. I had three different English teachers in Grade 11 because they kept leaving. This was particularly frustrating as personal feedback (e.g. feedback on progress over different exams) is incredibly important in subjective subjects such as English. When new teachers come in, they know nothing about you or your knowledge as a student, and thus their feedback is limited and may not be as helpful as it could be.
52 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 inMansfield State High School
Co-ed · State, competitive entry · Mansfield
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 3,978
Strong evidence22 separate reviews mention it, out of 28.
Comes up in 79% of 28 reviews · about the Brisbane average (71%)
This school 79% Brisbane 71%
Of 43 comments: 18 speak well of it · 8 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.
2 more from Mansfield State High School
Review Expectations versus reality
I had high academic expectations for Mansfield and was greatly pleased, as the school has many high achievers who get into great courses and the teachers are highly skilled at teaching and controlling classes.
Review Getting extra help
Teachers were generally accessible and willing to help students struggling in core subjects. They offered extra support through after-school sessions, one-on-one guidance, and helpful resources. Peer tutoring and study groups also played a role in assisting students. The supportive environment made it… Read all
Teachers were generally accessible and willing to help students struggling in core subjects. They offered extra support through after-school sessions, one-on-one guidance, and helpful resources. Peer tutoring and study groups also played a role in assisting students. The supportive environment made it easier to seek help and improve understanding.
38 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 evidence10 separate reviews mention it, out of 12.
Comes up in 83% of 12 reviews · about the Brisbane average (71%)
This school 83% Brisbane 71%
Of 28 comments: 19 speak well of it
21 more review mentions and 7 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 evidence18 separate reviews mention it, out of 23.
Comes up in 78% of 23 reviews · about the Brisbane average (71%)
This school 78% Brisbane 71%
Of 36 comments: 18 speak well of it · 1 mixed · 3 raise 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… Read all
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
2 more from Indooroopilly State High School
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.
Review What we like and dislike
Likes: Dedicated teachers who go out of their way to support students. Strong academic focus with extension and enrichment options. Diverse cultural environment that teaches respect and global awareness. Good music and sports programs. Modern facilities, especially the science labs and the new performing… Read all
Likes: Dedicated teachers who go out of their way to support students. Strong academic focus with extension and enrichment options. Diverse cultural environment that teaches respect and global awareness. Good music and sports programs. Modern facilities, especially the science labs and the new performing arts centre Dislikes: The school can feel quite large and sometimes a bit impersonal. Parking and drop-off zones are often congested.
31 more review mentions. A free account opens them, and you don't need a card.
Create free accountSign 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 evidence15 separate reviews mention it, out of 18.
Comes up in 83% of 18 reviews · about the Brisbane average (71%)
This school 83% Brisbane 71%
Of 35 comments: 15 speak well of it · 1 mixed · 2 raise concerns
31 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 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 evidence7 separate reviews mention it, out of 12.
Comes up in 58% of 12 reviews · about the Brisbane average (71%)
This school 58% Brisbane 71%
Of 19 comments: 13 speak well of it
13 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.
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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 evidence13 separate reviews mention it, out of 15.
Comes up in 87% of 15 reviews · about the Brisbane average (71%)
This school 87% Brisbane 71%
Of 31 comments: 14 speak well of it · 1 mixed · 5 raise concerns
28 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 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 evidence12 separate reviews mention it, out of 19.
Comes up in 63% of 19 reviews · about the Brisbane average (71%)
This school 63% Brisbane 71%
Of 25 comments: 12 speak well of it · 3 raise concerns
23 more review mentions and 2 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 inSt Joseph's Nudgee College
Boys · Catholic · Boondall
- Fees $25,035 a year (2026, Year 12)
- Sport GPS
- Median ATAR 88.6 (2025)source
- Students 1,720
- Boarding (boys only)
Some evidence14 people mention it. Worth reading what they said.
Comes up in 100% of 4 reviews · about the Brisbane average (71%)
This school 100% Brisbane 71%
Of 19 comments: 6 speak well of it · 1 mixed · 1 raises concerns
9 more review mentions and 10 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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Co-ed · Independent · Everton Park
- Fees $14,855 a year (2026, Year 12, first child, all-in)
- Students 1,258
Strong evidence10 separate reviews mention it, out of 15.
Comes up in 67% of 15 reviews · about the Brisbane average (71%)
This school 67% Brisbane 71%
Of 19 comments: 9 speak well of it · 3 raise concerns
19 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 evidence7 separate reviews mention it, out of 15.
Comes up in 47% of 15 reviews · below the Brisbane average (71%)
This school 47% Brisbane 71%
Of 14 comments: 4 speak well of it · 3 raise concerns
14 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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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