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.
75 schools where people talk about rules, discipline and vaping.
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.
Mansfield State High School
Co-ed · State, competitive entry · Mansfield
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 3,978
Strong evidence24 separate reviews mention it, out of 28.
Comes up in 86% of 28 reviews · 1.5× the Brisbane average (55%)
This school 86% Brisbane 55%
Of 39 comments: 6 speak well of it · 8 raise concerns
Review Compared with other schools
The school uses many different apps and portals for online learning such as education perfect, acer, and other school portals for uniform or tuck shop. This provides the students with simple ways to access learning or other needs, proving to be highly effective.
2 more from Mansfield State High School
Review Bullying and getting to school safely
Bullying was not an issue at my school, as there was a strong focus on respect and inclusivity. I always felt safe getting to and from school, with minimal risks in the area. The school maintained a secure environment through supervision, clear rules, and a supportive community.
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
34 more review mentions. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for competitive-entry state schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
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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 evidence20 separate reviews mention it, out of 36.
Comes up in 56% of 36 reviews · about the Brisbane average (55%)
This school 56% Brisbane 55%
Of 26 comments: 2 speak well of it · 3 raise concerns
Review Year 12 subject choices
In Year 12, I studied English, General Maths, Biology, Modern History, Legal Studies, and Health. I chose these because I enjoyed writing and was interested in social issues, plus they worked well with my goal of getting into uni. I was also heavily involved in sport outside of class, which played a… Read all
In Year 12, I studied English, General Maths, Biology, Modern History, Legal Studies, and Health. I chose these because I enjoyed writing and was interested in social issues, plus they worked well with my goal of getting into uni. I was also heavily involved in sport outside of class, which played a big role in my school life and helped with time management and discipline. I sometimes wish I’d picked Psychology instead of Biology, since I found it more relatable and easier to keep up with.
1 more from Brisbane State High School
Review School culture
BSHS had a mix of both traditional and modern elements. The culture was competitive and achievement-focused, especially in academics and sport, but also supportive if you were willing to engage. It had fairly strict rules around uniform and behaviour, but the overall environment felt modern, diverse,… Read all
BSHS had a mix of both traditional and modern elements. The culture was competitive and achievement-focused, especially in academics and sport, but also supportive if you were willing to engage. It had fairly strict rules around uniform and behaviour, but the overall environment felt modern, diverse, and energetic. There was a strong school pride, and students were encouraged to aim high.
24 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 evidence14 separate reviews mention it, out of 23.
Comes up in 61% of 23 reviews · about the Brisbane average (55%)
This school 61% Brisbane 55%
Of 19 comments: 11 speak well of it · 3 raise concerns
19 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 evidence11 separate reviews mention it, out of 22.
Comes up in 50% of 22 reviews · about the Brisbane average (55%)
This school 50% Brisbane 55%
Of 19 comments: 2 mixed · 5 raise concerns
Review Subject range and curiosity
QASMT wasn't the best at variety in terms of subject choices. It was very limited, and there was a strict structure for the selection process (for example, everyone had to do a language). Additionally, in my grade at least, the school removed subject options such as the Arts in Grade 11 since there were… Read all
QASMT wasn't the best at variety in terms of subject choices. It was very limited, and there was a strict structure for the selection process (for example, everyone had to do a language). Additionally, in my grade at least, the school removed subject options such as the Arts in Grade 11 since there were a low number of students that did it in Grade 10. Those students were then forced to pick up another subject, such as chemistry, instead. To be fair, SMT in QASMT stands for science, maths, and technology. The subjects, therefore, reflect this in offering courses mainly in these areas. There were a lot fewer creative subjects that could be found in the other QA school, QACI (creative industries). Instead, it offered subjects such as ITGS ('information technology in a global society') which would probably not be found commonly elsewhere.
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 Inclusion and bullying
QASMT is very diverse with students from multiple backgrounds. Many cultural events were also held, including Harmony Week, where students are encouraged to wear their cultural dress and participate in related activities. Bullying, from what I could tell, wasn't a significant issue. In a school where… Read all
QASMT is very diverse with students from multiple backgrounds. Many cultural events were also held, including Harmony Week, where students are encouraged to wear their cultural dress and participate in related activities. Bullying, from what I could tell, wasn't a significant issue. In a school where academics is the priority, there's a stereotypical correlation between high-achieving students and good behaviour. This is supported by the fact that I never witnessed any bullying, but it should be noted that bullying is pretty much an inevitable issue, albeit less prominent at QA.
14 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 evidence10 separate reviews mention it, out of 19.
Comes up in 53% of 19 reviews · about the Brisbane average (55%)
This school 53% Brisbane 55%
Of 14 comments: 2 speak well of it · 3 raise concerns
11 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.
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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 evidence9 separate reviews mention it, out of 11.
Comes up in 82% of 11 reviews · about the Brisbane average (55%)
This school 82% Brisbane 55%
Of 15 comments: 7 speak well of it
13 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 inKelvin Grove State College
Co-ed · State · Kelvin Grove
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 3,646
Strong evidence13 separate reviews mention it, out of 19.
Comes up in 68% of 19 reviews · about the Brisbane average (55%)
This school 68% Brisbane 55%
Of 15 comments: 4 speak well of it · 3 raise concerns
Review Would you recommend it?
I would recommend kg to a certain extent as the school is not very accomodating when it comes to changing subjects, as I had requested a subject change, had to follow up and chase the school regarding it two times and they ensured it’s in process, when ultimately they never got back to me after that… Read all
I would recommend kg to a certain extent as the school is not very accomodating when it comes to changing subjects, as I had requested a subject change, had to follow up and chase the school regarding it two times and they ensured it’s in process, when ultimately they never got back to me after that and I never got to change. They do not treat students equally and favour particular students over others. Unfortunately kg focuses more on uniform and their image more than the actual students, which is a major flaw in my opinion. Other than that the teachers I had in my last years were really nice and helpful.
1 more from Kelvin Grove State College
Review Expectations versus reality
I didn’t really have any expectations for the school considering it was a public school, but I don’t like how nosy the school is. I dropped my daughter to school very early one time and she got a detention for being on her phone at 7:30 in the morning and got it taken away. Quite ridiculous I don’t think… Read all
I didn’t really have any expectations for the school considering it was a public school, but I don’t like how nosy the school is. I dropped my daughter to school very early one time and she got a detention for being on her phone at 7:30 in the morning and got it taken away. Quite ridiculous I don’t think the school should be able to take my children’s belongings like that, especially that early in the morning. She was then told to go to the library and borrow a book to read instead of being on her phone. Mind you the library opens at 8.
13 more review mentions. A free account opens them, and you don't need a card.
Create free accountSign inQueensland Academy for Creative Industries
Co-ed · State, competitive entry · Kelvin Grove
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 437
Some evidence8 people mention it. Worth reading what they said.
Comes up in 40% of 5 reviews · about the Brisbane average (55%)
This school 40% Brisbane 55%
Of 10 comments: 2 speak well of it · 1 raises concerns
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,… Read all
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.
1 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… Read all
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.
2 more review mentions and 6 more Open Day Reflections. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for competitive-entry state schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
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Co-ed · State · Corinda
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 2,123
Strong evidence11 separate reviews mention it, out of 13.
Comes up in 85% of 13 reviews · 1.5× the Brisbane average (55%)
This school 85% Brisbane 55%
Of 13 comments: 2 speak well of it · 1 raises concerns
Review Something only students would know
Long before the tuck shop stood where it is now, right beside where the uniform shop is, it used to be the small hospitality classroom in B block where the small garden lays!
1 more from Corinda State High School
Review School culture
My school’s culture was most definitely strict. Despite it being a public school, our principal had enforced private school-like rules that I found impacted the wellbeing of students.
11 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 evidence8 separate reviews mention it, out of 18.
Comes up in 44% of 18 reviews · about the Brisbane average (55%)
This school 44% Brisbane 55%
Of 12 comments: 4 speak well of it
12 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 · Catholic · Fortitude Valley
- Fees $23,485 a year (2026, Year 12)
- Sport CaSSSA
- Median ATAR 93.4 (2025)source
- Students 1,733
Some evidence6 people mention it. Worth reading what they said.
Comes up in 67% of 9 reviews · about the Brisbane average (55%)
This school 67% Brisbane 55%
Of 11 comments: 5 speak well of it · 1 raises concerns
11 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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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 (55%)
This school 75% Brisbane 55%
Of 10 comments: 2 speak well of it
10 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