A Look at the Standouts: Private and State Schools
Nestled along Australia’s stunning eastern coastline, the Gold Coast is not just a vacation hotspot; it is also home to high schools known for their academic strength, vibrant campuses, and supportive communities.
Whether parents are scouting for top-tier private schools or strong state-run options, here’s an approachable guide to some of the best high schools Gold Coast.
Somerset College: A Consistent Leader
Somerset College in Mudgeeraba consistently ranks among the best high schools Gold Coast has to offer in terms of academic performance. In recent years, it has boasted some of the highest median ATAR scores on the Gold Coast, with many students achieving results above 95. It is also one of the few schools in the region offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) alongside the QLD ATAR pathway. The school is known not just for results but also for its diverse programs, such as international exchange trips, a ski tour, and the popular annual Celebration of Literature festival
All Saints Anglican School and A.B. Paterson College Strong Academic Performers
All Saints Anglican School in Merrimac follows closely behind in results, showing strength across NAPLAN and ATAR outcomes. A.B. Paterson College in Arundel also performs well academically, regularly ranking highly in both primary and secondary years. A.B. Paterson is a co-educational non-religious school offering a wide-ranging extracurricular program including music, debating, makerspace activities, and a chess club.
St Hilda’s School Holistic Development in an All-Girls Setting
Located in Southport, St Hilda’s delivers top-tier outcomes in an environment designed to nurture young women. With more than 100 co-curricular offerings and a strong boarding community, the school emphasizes leadership, character development, and personal growth.
It has a legacy spanning more than a century and continues to prepare girls for success in both academic and personal pursuits. Many families value the benefits of an all-girls education, particularly in encouraging participation in STEM subjects and building confidence in leadership roles.
The Southport School Boys Focused Excellence
The Southport School, often referred to as TSS, is a prestigious Anglican day and boarding school for boys. It consistently ranks among the top-performing schools in the region with strong ATAR and NAPLAN results.
A significant proportion of students achieve ATARs above 90, with some reaching the very top statewide. Beyond academics, the school shines in sport, music, drama, and cadets. Community events such as the Bush to Beach Bash and strong alumni traditions help create a unique sense of belonging for students and families.
Top Public High Schools Worth Knowing
Benowa State High School Academic and Innovation Hub
Benowa State High is one of the leading public schools on the Gold Coast. It is home to a French Immersion program where subjects are taught in French, a robust STEM program with coding and 3D printing, and even a Steiner education stream that encourages independent learning.
The school often performs at a level comparable to private schools and has gained a reputation for innovation, inclusivity, and high achievement in both academics and extracurricular activities.
Other State Schools with Growing Impact
Miami State High has recently benefited from major infrastructure upgrades, including a modern sports centre, reflecting a serious investment in student futures. Helensvale State High is one of the largest schools on the coast and has a reputation for excellence in both sports and performing arts.
These schools demonstrate that quality education on the Gold Coast is not confined to private institutions and that public schools are providing increasingly competitive options.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Fit
When choosing a school, it is important to look beyond test scores. Consider the community culture, the curriculum style, such as IB or ATAR, the co-curricular opportunities, and the overall environment. Every child has unique needs, and the Gold Coast provides a wide range of options to suit different learning styles and goals. Families can feel confident knowing that the region has schools capable of nurturing both academic success and personal growth.