Choosing the Best School for Your Kids: A Guide to 200+ Schools in Townsville North Queensland
With over 200 schools and more than 43,000 students, Townsville North Queensland offers a rich array of educational opportunities.
The challenge? Deciding which school is the best fit for your child. From public and private institutions to specialty schools catering to diverse learning needs, the region boasts some of the finest facilities and education programs in the country.
Here’s what you need to know to make an informed choice.
Affordable Quality Education
Townsville North Queensland isn’t just about quality; it’s also about affordability. Early childhood care and school placements, including daycare and private schools, are more accessible and budget-friendly compared to capital cities.
Cost Comparison
- Average Australian Private School Fees: $24,380 per year (Australian Financial Review)
- Average Townsville North Queensland Private School Fees: $8,564 per year
Student Testimonials: Why These Schools Stand Out
Hear from the students themselves (as reported in the Townsville Bulletin) as to what makes their school the best in Townsville.
ST JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL, MUNDINGBURRA
Prep to Year 6 Catholic School
“Learning at St Joseph’s Mundingburra is fun, but there are still high expectations for our behaviour and work. Learning has a good combination of ‘fun’ and being ‘serious’ and our teachers are supportive. There are heaps of opportunities provided, including lunchtime activities, groups to be a part of and sporting opportunities. We are lucky to be able to be part of groups like Tech Club, Earth Warriors and Eco Marines. There are a lot of extra curricular activities on offer. Our school has a community feel and everyone knows each other. We are a safe, caring, inclusive community, where everyone belongs and we are known by our staff. The school has a lot of greenery with lovely big trees. There is respect for others as we follow the ‘Joey’s Way’.” Nathaneal, Darcy, Marguerite and Lachlan, Student Representative Council 2024, St Joseph’s Catholic School Mundingburra.
ST CLARE’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL
Prep to Year 6 Catholic School
“St Clare’s has great staff that put every student first. They make sure you are here to learn, socialise, and stay healthy. The staff give up heaps of their own time to give students a fun experience by taking students on excursions, camps as well as sporting trips and also offering loads of extra-curricular activities like music, technology and extension. Our teachers show lots of care and dedication for all students regardless of their ability. I believe St Clare’s is a fun and healthy way of adventuring through your primary years.” Kaelan, School Captain (2024) St Clare’s Catholic School.
TOWNSVILLE GRAMMER SCHOOL
Pre-Prep to Year 12 across three campuses
“Townsville Grammar School has provided me with opportunities to thrive in an environment focused on academic and personal growth. I have been able to enjoy a range of co-curricular programs and experience a sense of belonging through community, not only with my peers, but with the supportive staff. TGS has fully prepared me for life beyond school.” – Christian de Jersey, School Captain 2024 Townsville Grammer School
ST PATRICKS COLLEGE TOWNSVILLE
All-girls independent catholic day and boarding high school
“We are proud to be a part of a school community designed for the young women of the future. St Patrick’s College Townsville has been a second home for generations of extraordinary women since the late 1800s. With such a tight-knit sisterhood, we are privileged to enjoy an exceptional teaching team, an outstanding pastoral care system, and a pioneering, all-embracing attitude towards learning. The College’s fierce interhouse sports carnivals, innovative STEM initiatives and strong student connections facilitate an environment where students graduate as women of action. Students strive to follow in the footsteps of the Sisters of Mercy, living out the values of compassion, respect, integrity, justice, hope and joy in everyday life. The college consistently considers future progress and enhancements because our leaders have the foresight in understanding the necessity of a well-rounded, holistic approach for the ever-evolving challenges of our society. Students are exposed to a number of future opportunities, all with the support of the college behind them.” - Eleanor Baxter and Lilly Hannay, College Captains, St Patricks College Townsville
ST JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL, THE STRAND
Prep to Year 6 Catholic School
“We are Joey’s on The Strand or also known as the school with the biggest sandpit in their backyard. Our school excels at everything from sports to academics, and our teachers make learning fun and even wear crazy costumes. The Village is our latest learning addition, which has been built to promote literacy learning for our younger students. It offers a variety of learning opportunities and real-life experiences where children can extend their language and social skills while having fun. At our school, we all have a voice and are provided with equal opportunities regardless of our differences. We are 151 years old which makes us the oldest and wisest Catholic school in the Townsville Diocese. We have a very close knit community that feels like family. I am proud to be a Joey’s kid.” Arabella, Year 6 Student (2024), St Joseph’s Catholic School, The Strand.
ST MARGARET MARYS COLLEGE
All-girls catholic high school
“St Margaret Mary’s College is an exceptional school which produces the aspiring leaders of the future. Inspired and inspirited by the teachers, seniors, community members and student leaders, our College creates an environment where young women are motivated to succeed and excel in all their pursuits, reaching their full potential. The vibrancy of our sisterhood is enhanced by the diversity of each student’s individual gifts and talents. By embodying the Benedictine values and the tradition of the Sisters of the Good Samaritan, the school aims to instil the values of compassion, hospitality and community into the very foundations of our College; a 60-year legacy continuously guiding our students and the wider community. At St Margaret Mary’s College, our young women have experiences, teachings and friendships that we will treasure well beyond our schooling years. Once a Maggie, always a Maggie!” - Taya Bowie and Ainara Kelly, College Captains, St Margaret Mary’s College 2024
KIRWAN STATE HIGH SCHOOL
Public state high school
“For me, Kirwan High is a school of opportunity. Whether it be sports, the arts, or general academics, Kirwan has continuously offered me the chance to pursue my passions. I’ve participated in chess club, STEM club, inter-school soccer, inter-school volleyball, strings ensemble, pops orchestra and many workshops on different subjects. I’ve participated in Model United Nations, chess tournaments and academic competitions, and through all of it Kirwan State High has supported me and pushed me out of my comfort zone. When I was coming out of primary school I wouldn’t have dreamt of doing half of those things, but Kirwan has helped me discover what I love.” - William Smart, Year 12 School Captain, Kirwan State High School 2024
KIRWAN STATE SCHOOL
Public Primary School (Prep to Year 6)
“Kirwan State Primary School is an excellent place to learn and make new friends for many reasons, such as the incredible staff that help all students strive to excel. This amazing school has all of the extra learning resources needed to assist Kirwan kids with their tasks. Not only does this school provide fun playing equipment for lunch times, it also has playgrounds and ovals that are well managed by the hardworking groundsman. This school has two epic computer labs that are located in the spectacular and fun library. Last but definitely not least, students have HPE and music lessons where they can experience different sports and use and play a variety of musical instruments to find their special flair. Kirwan is a great school to attend and make lifelong memories when participating in the many extraordinary activities that this school has to offer.” – Harlow, School Captain, Kirwan State School (2024)
ANNANDALE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
Kindergarten to Year 12 Christian College
“I would describe our school as very friendly and welcoming. I’ve been here since Kindy, so it feels more like a family to me. It feels like I’ve known my cohort for a long time and have had the opportunity to build meaningful connections. The College offers a Christian education. It also provides a very good education that I personally think lets you do so many things. We can study aquatic practices here to get your scuba and boat licences. I really love biology, and I find everything to do with that interesting, so becoming a marine biologist is a possible career choice for me. That subject would definitely get me onto the path to that with those licences. This is a school where there are people who think like me and it’s a place where I can make friends with people who share a Christian faith.” – Eden Hawksworth, Year 9 (2024), Annandale Christian College
SOUTHERN CROSS CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Townsville’s newest Prep to year-12 college
“I consider myself lucky to be part of the Southern Cross Catholic College community. There are various opportunities you can be involved in as a student, like our Primary School Immersion program. There is a wide variety of sporting teams including rugby league, rugby union, soccer, cricket, netball, hockey, futsal and basketball. Our teachers guide our learning every day and help us reach our full potential.” – Adam Snee, Primary Student, Southern Cross Catholic College
IGNATIUS PARK COLLEGE
Townsville’s only Catholic boys’ high school
“Ignatius Park College is an excellent school that excels in several aspects. One significant factor includes the brotherhood that is present throughout the school. This camaraderie builds a strong culture that is seen within all year levels. Moreover, the teachers provide exceptional educational programs and skills. The school also provides state of the art facilities for us to work and learn in and, lastly, there are significant opportunities within all areas, whether it is sport, education or the arts.” – Alex Demopoulos, College Captain (2024), Ignatius Park College
ST ANTHONY’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Prep to Year 12 Catholic School
“Students love to study the sciences at St Anthony’s Catholic College because they feel supported by dedicated and experienced staff, committed to enhancing students’ educational experiences. The science programs enable the students to excel academically while linking science content to local real-world contexts. It is a privilege to be able to choose from a range of diverse subjects, offering practical experiences and leading on to numerous career opportunities. The department’s extensive range of facilities provides students with hands-on learning opportunities enhancing their knowledge and passion for science. We know we are given the best chance for academic excellence when we choose one of the Science subjects at St Anthony’s.” Bianca West and Heidi Stremouchiw, Year 12 Science students St Anthony’s Catholic College.
HOLY SPIRIT CATHOLIC SCHOOL
Prep to Year 6 Catholic School
“Our school is the best because we have a student voice, and we love being part of the Spirit community. I love how we feel welcome.
It’s the best because we have the best staff and have lots of opportunities to learn. We are going to miss Holy Spirit when we leave for high school. Once a Spirit kid, always a Spirit kid.” Tapenisa and Lucas, School Captains, Holy Spirit Catholic School (2024)
TOWNSVILLE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
Co-educational Christian college from prep to year 12.
“I began my journey at Townsville Christian College in year 2, and now, as I undertake the final year of my studies, I can reflect on that journey and see the powerful impact my teachers, the school environment and the strong college core values have had on shaping who I am today. Thanks to the support and encouragement I have received over the years, I gained the confidence and determination to take on extra studies for Certificates II and III in Health, alongside my year 12 subjects. I aspire to become a nurse once I finish this year. The college has been instrumental in preparing me for a successful future through dedicated teachers, an amazing Principal in Mrs Ireland, and a culture of honour and excellence in everything we do.” – Elichie Tamwoy, Year 12 (2024), Townsville Christian College
RYAN CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Prep to Year 12
“What makes my school excellent is its fantastic arts and sports programs, which provide students with a well-rounded education and opportunities to explore their passions. The wide range of extra-curricular activities ensures every student can find something that sparks their interest and allows them to develop new skills. Our amazing staff are dedicated to fostering a supportive and challenging learning environment, pushing students to reach their full potential. At Ryan, there are many leadership opportunities, preparing students to become confident and responsible young adults. Overall, my school is the best place to excel academically, grow personally, and prepare for a successful future.” – Natalia, Ryan Catholic College Student (2024)
PIMLICO STATE HIGH SCHOOL
Public high school
“At Pimlico State High, we believe that in striving for excellence, we can make a world of difference through our shared commitment to developing the attributes of a global citizen. Every day, our amazing staff create a safe, positive learning environment where students can connect with their peers and grow into their best selves. I feel that our school provides us not only with the subjects and courses that help us become global citizens, but also the relationships and connections that strengthen our community – a united, nurturing, and inclusive community I am proud to represent and be a part of.” – Hilman Pranowo, Pimlico High School Student (2024)
MARIAN CATHOLIC SCHOOL
Prep to Year 6 Catholic School
“What makes Marian Catholic School excellent is the facilities and grounds around the school. It feels very safe and supportive for the students. My favourite learning areas are maths and PE. Our teachers make learning interesting.” – Bowie, School Captain (2024), Marian Catholic School
ANNANDALE STATE SCHOOL
Prep to Year 12 Public School
“The teachers are very kind. They love education and love to encourage us to do our best. Our school is a multicultural school and our four school captains are from Italy, Netherlands and India.” Lucas, Captain (2024), Annandale State School.
WILLIAM ROSS STATE HIGH SCHOOL
Public High School (Year 7 to Year 12)
“William Ross State High School is excellent in many aspects but excels most in the commitment of teachers and other staff members to ensure all students can succeed. Not only do teachers work tirelessly within the classroom, but also outside of it by volunteering their time for fundraising, event supervision, and even tutoring students. Our staff at WRSHS play a massive role in guaranteeing that high school is a memorable milestone where students can achieve their best while having fun. As a year 12, I will miss the amazing contribution teachers put into ensuring the success of all students at WRSHS. The incredible efforts of teachers and staff members at William Ross State High School are a unique identifier of what makes my school excellent.” – Madison McIntosh, School Captain (2024), Willian Ross State High School.
THURINGOWA STATE HIGH SCHOOL
Public High School (Year 7 to Year 12)
“Our school is very diverse and our school culture is all about inclusivity and the key elements of our school philosophy is all about fostering a sense of community, promoting diversity and inclusion, and emphasising the importance of lifelong learning. Thuringowa State High School offers extraordinary activities in block sport like rugby league, rugby union (7s), netball, basketball and volleyball. It offers amazing student services as our support staff are friendly and always willing to have a chat and anything else that might help. At Thuringowa, when it comes to education, our primary focus is to provide everyone with knowledge, skills and opportunities for personal growth and development as well as prepare you for life outside of school when you get a job or go to university.” – Lizzie Tabuai, School Captain, Thuringowa State High School.