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.
86 schools where people talk about subjects and senior pathways.
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 evidence30 separate reviews mention it, out of 36.
Comes up in 83% of 36 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 83% Brisbane 89%
Of 74 comments: 28 speak well of it · 8 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.
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 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.
69 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 evidence24 separate reviews mention it, out of 28.
Comes up in 86% of 28 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 86% Brisbane 89%
Of 67 comments: 28 speak well of it · 1 mixed · 4 raise concerns
Review Year 12 subject choices
In Grade 12, I chose Physics and Engineering because of my strong interest in understanding how things work and applying scientific principles to real-world problems. These subjects provided a solid foundation for my passion for electrical work and problem-solving. Looking back, I have no regrets, as they aligned perfectly with my goals.
2 more from Mansfield State High 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.
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.
62 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 evidence20 separate reviews mention it, out of 22.
Comes up in 91% of 22 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 91% Brisbane 89%
Of 75 comments: 27 speak well of it · 1 mixed · 9 raise concerns
Review Year 12 subject choices
My subjects were: English HL, Biology HL, Psychology HL, Maths AA SL, Chemistry SL and Japanese Ab Initio. I chose these subjects based on what I was good at and what I enjoyed. This was based off my previous grades and general interest. It also helped that the higher levels that I chose had some overlap-… Read all
My subjects were: English HL, Biology HL, Psychology HL, Maths AA SL, Chemistry SL and Japanese Ab Initio. I chose these subjects based on what I was good at and what I enjoyed. This was based off my previous grades and general interest. It also helped that the higher levels that I chose had some overlap- for example, some biology and psychology topics were the same, like neuroscience, so for me it was a good choice. However, I know some people strayed far away from that combination because biology and psychology HL were two subjects that were incredibly content-heavy and required a lot of memorisation. Ultimately, subject selection is all about playing to your strengths. If I could turn back time, I would've done AI SL instead of AA SL for maths. As a law student, I do not require a high level of maths. AA SL is more complex and difficult than AI SL but does not count as a "higher level" requirement. Therefore, as I didn't need AA SL as a prerequisite for my university degree, AI SL would probably have been a better option as it would be easier to get a good grade, which is what I needed. However, it is worth noting that unlike the current system that accepts students from Grade 7, when I arrived they only took Grade 10s, so I didn't have any chance to try out junior subjects that would have allowed me to make a more informed decision on what my subjects and higher levels should be.
2 more from Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology
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.
Review Year 12 subject choices
Biology (HL), Chemistry (HL), english (SL), economics (HL), japanese ab initio. I always liked the 2 sciences bio and chem and would not change any of my subject selections. Overall, these subjects were not too difficult to learn and score high marks in. Scaling for different subjects also does not… Read all
Biology (HL), Chemistry (HL), english (SL), economics (HL), japanese ab initio. I always liked the 2 sciences bio and chem and would not change any of my subject selections. Overall, these subjects were not too difficult to learn and score high marks in. Scaling for different subjects also does not exist for IB, so high marks in arts scales the same as in chemistry, which might be a plus for some students. Subject offered at SMT is quite limited.
61 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 evidence22 separate reviews mention it, out of 23.
Comes up in 96% of 23 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 96% Brisbane 89%
Of 59 comments: 28 speak well of it · 1 mixed · 3 raise concerns
Review Year 12 subject choices
In Grade 12, I chose Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Maths Methods, Accounting, and English. I picked these subjects because I’ve always been interested in STEM fields and wanted to keep my options open for university courses in science or business. Maths Methods and Chemistry were both challenging but… Read all
In Grade 12, I chose Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Maths Methods, Accounting, and English. I picked these subjects because I’ve always been interested in STEM fields and wanted to keep my options open for university courses in science or business. Maths Methods and Chemistry were both challenging but rewarding, and I enjoyed the logical problem-solving involved. Accounting appealed to me because I wanted to understand how businesses operate financially and I found the most interesting and my favourite because of how applicable it is to the real world, analysing financial statements of companies to invest in..
2 more from Indooroopilly State High School
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 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
53 more review mentions. A free account opens them, and you don't need a card.
Create free accountSign 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 (89%)
This school 95% Brisbane 89%
Of 52 comments: 33 speak well of it · 1 mixed · 2 raise concerns
50 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 evidence18 separate reviews mention it, out of 19.
Comes up in 95% of 19 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 95% Brisbane 89%
Of 44 comments: 14 speak well of it · 1 mixed · 7 raise concerns
Review Year 12 subject choices
Yes I wish I could’ve successfully changed out of my legal studies class to do accounting or chemistry as I am now struggling in uni as I didn’t take chemistry during school. Unfortunately the school isn’t very accomodating
2 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.
Review Readiness for life after school
Honestly not prepared at all. The school wasn’t helpful in preparing us beyond school as when we picked our subjects for year 11 and 12 they told us not to worry about atar but ultimately lots of kids followed this advice and picked subjects based on what they enjoyed and couldn’t score a high enough atar to get into what they wanted.
40 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 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 35 comments: 18 speak well of it · 2 mixed · 1 raises concerns
35 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 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 evidence15 separate reviews mention it, out of 15.
Comes up in 100% of 15 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 100% Brisbane 89%
Of 38 comments: 12 speak well of it · 2 mixed · 4 raise concerns
37 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 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 30 comments: 16 speak well of it
27 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 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 28 comments: 7 speak well of it · 2 mixed · 2 raise concerns
28 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 inCorinda State High School
Co-ed · State · Corinda
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 2,123
Strong evidence12 separate reviews mention it, out of 13.
Comes up in 92% of 13 reviews · about the Brisbane average (89%)
This school 92% Brisbane 89%
Of 31 comments: 10 speak well of it · 1 raises concerns
Review Year 12 subject choices
I did English, Methods, Biology, Health and Japanese. I chose these subjects because I was aiming to get a specific ATAR to do the course I wanted in Uni. Additionally, I figured that biology and health would also help me in my future nursing studies. I do not wish I chose differently because I enjoyed each subject thoroughly.
2 more from Corinda State High School
Review Subject range and curiosity
Yes, there were a diverse list of subjects for students to pick from that reflected a range of interests. The only downside is that there’s only a limited amount of languages that are available to study and I wished there was more.
Review What we like and dislike
What I liked most was the convenience of the location and the variety of subjects offered. However, I disliked how the school didn’t always seem to prioritize support for struggling students, and I felt that the focus was too much on academics rather than a well-rounded experience.
28 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 28 comments: 12 speak well of it · 1 mixed · 3 raise concerns
28 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