Wesley College in South Perth has been named Australia’s highest-ranked private school in the 2026 Schools360 national comparison rankings, earning recognition for its outstanding performance across a broad range of educational and student-focused measures.
The prestigious achievement places the Western Australian institution ahead of hundreds of private and independent schools nationwide. Established in 1923, Wesley College received an overall score of 93.3 per cent, securing the number one position in the country and reinforcing its reputation as one of Australia’s leading educational institutions.
Schools360, an independent school comparison platform, assesses schools using a comprehensive data-driven framework designed to provide a more holistic evaluation than traditional academic rankings. Rather than focusing solely on examination results, the platform measures performance across five key categories: Academic Excellence, Student Wellbeing, Learning Programs, Learning Environment, and Institutional Excellence.
According to the ranking methodology, schools are evaluated through 60 individual scoring elements, allowing for a detailed assessment of educational quality, student support systems, campus facilities, leadership, and overall school performance. The 2026 edition of the rankings introduced a new AI-enabled scoring engine, which combines artificial intelligence analysis with expert human review to ensure consistency, transparency, and accuracy in the evaluation process.
In a statement responding to the recognition, Wesley College acknowledged that while rankings cannot fully represent the unique culture and spirit of a school community, the result reflects many of the qualities that define the Wesley educational experience. The College said the achievement highlights the strength of its academic programs, commitment to student wellbeing, quality co-curricular opportunities, and supportive learning environment.
School leaders also credited the success to the dedication of teachers, professional staff, coaches, boarding personnel, and support teams who contribute daily to students’ growth and development. The College emphasized that strong schools are built through consistent effort, thoughtful teaching, attentive pastoral care, high expectations, and meaningful interactions that help students feel supported, valued, and connected.
The rankings were particularly significant for Western Australia, with Wesley College leading the national list while other WA institutions also performed strongly. Scotch College was the next highest-ranked Western Australian school, securing 16th place nationally. The results demonstrate the strength of private education within the state and highlight the growing recognition of WA schools on the national stage.
Wesley College is also investing heavily in future development projects designed to enhance student opportunities and educational outcomes. The school is currently progressing its Centenary Building Project and the development of a new Aquatic Precinct. Once completed, the upgrades will feature modern classrooms, specialist learning facilities, multi-sport courts, gathering spaces, a 50-metre swimming pool, and a full-size international-standard water polo pool.
These major infrastructure investments are expected to further strengthen the College’s academic, sporting, and extracurricular offerings while supporting future generations of students.
The national recognition serves as a milestone achievement for Wesley College, reflecting more than a century of educational excellence. As the school continues to expand its facilities and programs, the ranking reinforces its position as a leading institution committed to academic achievement, student wellbeing, and preparing young Australians for future success.
