Looking to buy a home within catchment of one of Brisbane’s best schools? Many of the city’s highest-performing schools are spread across a range of suburbs, offering great options in various locations.

Whether you’re drawn to Brisbane’s northern suburbs, or the urban sprawl south of the river, there is no shortage of great schools to consider—and base your family near.

 

What Makes for a Great School?

All parents want the best for their children, and that includes education. For this reason, schools that have strong reputations for academic performance are no-brainer top picks for Brisbane families.

 

Of course, there is more to education than ATAR and assessment. Great schools shape students through lessons that extend beyond the classroom—of how to participate in a supportive, inclusive, and culturally diverse community.

 

Moreover, future-focused learning is key, as it helps students become confident, capable graduates.

 

Suburbs that are home to these so-called great schools offer increased access to high-quality educational avenues that foster a lifetime of success. In effect, living within catchment of a sought-after school ensures priority enrolment. Stress no more over waiting lists!

What’s more, it can enhance property values, making it a smart investment for both educational and financial purposes. Often, properties that are close to Brisbane’s best schools sell at premium and experience stronger long-term capital growth compared to those outside of catchment.

 

Which Brisbane School Catchment Should I Buy In?

 

The choice of which Brisbane school catchment to buy in is entirely up to you. Every family’s lifestyle—and most importantly—every child’s needs, are different.

 

Let’s look at five key considerations for families deciding which Brisbane school will best suit.

 

Academic Excellence

If academic performance is a top priority, consider schools with strong NAPLAN and ATAR results, selective entry programs, or International Baccalaureate (IB) offerings.
Top Picks: Brisbane SHS, Mansfield SHS, Indooroopilly SHS

 

Specialised Learning Needs

For children requiring extra support—whether that be to keep up with or to excel beyond peers—schools with strong special education programs, talented streams, or smaller class sizes may be ideal.
Top Picks: Aspley Special School and Glenleighden School (special education), and Bray Park SHS and Kelvin Grove State College (excellence)

 

Private Vs. Public

Public schools offer free or low-cost high-quality education. They are known to have inclusive environments that cater to a wide range of learning needs and backgrounds.
Top Picks: Wavell SHS, Patricks Road SS, Brisbane SHS

Private and independent schools provide diverse curriculums, religious affiliations, and unique extracurriculars. However, they do come with higher fees. These schools often offer more personalised attention and tailored educational experiences.
Top Picks: Churchie, St Joseph’s Gregory Terrace, Brisbane Grammar

 

Sports and Extracurricular Focus

For aspiring athletes or artists, schools with strong sports programs, performing arts, or music excellence streams might be the best choice.
Top Picks: St Peters Lutheran College (strong sports culture), Kelvin Grove State College (Qld Academy for Creative Industries).

 

Location and Lifestyle

Your school choice should align with your daily routine—consider traffic, public transport, and proximity to home and work. Inner-city schools like Brisbane SHS offer convenience, yet higher property prices. On the other hand, suburban schools may provide more space and a community feel.

 

Ultimately, the best school catchment to live in is one that aligns with your child’s strengths, interests, and learning style. As well, you need to cater for your family’s budget and lifestyle. To make a well-informed decision, we recommend conducting thorough research, visiting campuses, and considering the future resale value of homes in the area.

 

As your trusted Brisbane buyers agency, it’s our job to make your life easier. So, naturally, we’ve conducted some general research for you. Enjoy two curated lists we have put together, featuring Brisbane suburbs that are home to all-round top-performing schools.

 

Brisbane Suburbs with the Best Private Schools

Spring Hill:

• • Brisbane Grammar School (Boys, Secondary)

• • Brisbane Girls Grammar School (Girls, Secondary)

South Brisbane:

• • Somerville House (Girls, Prep to Year 12)

Indooroopilly:

• • St Peters Lutheran College (Co-educational, Prep to Year 12)

Ashgrove:

• • Marist College Ashgrove (Boys, Years 5-12)

Clayfield:

• • Clayfield College (Girls, Prep to Year 12)

Toowong:

• • Brisbane Boys’ College (Boys, Years 4-12)

East Brisbane:

• • Anglican Church Grammar School (Churchie) (Boys, Prep to Year 12)

Wooloowin:

• • Holy Cross School (Co-educational, Primary)

Bardon:

• • St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School (Co-educational, Primary)

Brisbane Suburbs with the Best Public Schools

Mansfield:

• • Mansfield State High School (Secondary)

• • Mansfield State School (Primary)

Sunnybank Hills:

• • Sunnybank Hills State School (Primary)

The Gap:

• • The Gap State High School (Secondary)

• • The Gap State School (Primary)

Kenmore:

• • Kenmore State High School (Secondary)

• • Kenmore State School (Primary)

Kelvin Grove:

• • Kelvin Grove State College (Prep-12)

Indooroopilly:

• • Indooroopilly State High School (Secondary)

• • Indooroopilly State School (Primary)

Wilston:

• • Wilston State School (Primary)

Ferny Grove:

• • Ferny Grove State High School (Secondary)

• • Ferny Grove State School (Primary)

Chapel Hill:

• • Chapel Hill State School (Primary)

McDowall:

• • McDowall State School (Primary)

Wishart:

• Wishart State School (Primary)

How a Buyer’s Agent Can Help

The unparallelled expertise of a seasoned buyer’s agent, like Lauren Jones at LJBA, can be invaluable when purchasing property in Brisbane’s top school catchments. For families looking to secure a home in these highly sought-after areas, Lauren offers:

 

Market Insights – As a Qualified Property Investment Advisor (QPIA®), Lauren provides up-to-date market data, helping you make informed decisions about properties within top-performing school zones.

 

Local Expertise – With years of experience in the Brisbane property market, Lauren understands the nuances of school catchments and can identify the best suburbs for your family’s needs.

 

Time-Saving Solutions – By handling the research, shortlisting properties, and liaising with local agents, LJBA ensures you only view homes that meet both your lifestyle and educational priorities.

 

Valuable Connections – From mortgage brokers to conveyancers and removalists, Lauren’s trusted network of professionals makes the transition into your ideal school catchment home smooth and stress-free.

 

Like to have a dedicated buyer’s agent by your side to help make this decision with confidence? Book your free consult call with LJBA today and let’s ensure your child has access to the most suitable education pathways possible.