Schools in Mackay, Queensland (2025 Update)

Choosing the Best School in Mackay? Here’s What You Need to Know. With over 40 schools in Mackay, finding the right one for your child can feel overwhelming. This guide covers public and private school options, top-rated schools, and how to choose the best fit based on academic performance, catchment areas, and extracurricular programs.

Use the map below to find a school in Mackay.

Mackay offers both public and private schools, including:

• State Schools – Free, government-funded education with strong academic programs.
• Private Schools – Catholic, Anglican, and independent schools with competitive tuition fees.
• Specialist Schools – Some schools offer programs in STEM, music, sports, and performing arts.

Mackay’s schools are known for their strong academic results and extracurricular programs that help students develop beyond the classroom.

Yes! Mackay operates on a school catchment system where each suburb is assigned specific schools.

If you’re moving to Mackay and looking for a home near good schools, check the school zoning map before buying or renting.

Need help finding a home in the right catchment? Contact Mackay City Property for expert advice.

Schools in Queensland, including those in Mackay, are recognised for their diverse curriculum offerings and focus on student development. Students benefit from personalised learning experiences, flexible pathways to further education, and qualifications that are recognised internationally. Many private schools in Mackay also offer scholarships and bursaries to support talented students, making top-tier education more accessible to families across the region.

According to Better Education, these primary schools achieved top results in Year 5 assessments:

• Whitsunday Anglican School (North Mackay) – 100% State Overall Score
• St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School (Mackay) – 95% State Overall Score
• St. Mary’s Catholic Primary School (South Mackay) – 94% State Overall Score
• Northview State School (Mount Pleasant) – 90% State Overall Score
• St. Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School (West Mackay) – 89% State Overall Score

While these scores highlight academic performance, it’s important to remember that they can fluctuate from year to year depending on student intake. Visiting schools and speaking with current parents or staff is crucial in gaining a comprehensive understanding of each institution’s offerings.

Mackay’s secondary schools are equally impressive, with several achieving high marks in Year 9 results according to a 2023 audit by Better Education. Some of the top-performing high schools include:

Best Performing High Schools

• Whitsunday Anglican School (North Mackay) – 99% State Score
• Holy Spirit College (Mount Pleasant) – 90% State Score
• St Patrick’s College (Mackay) – 83% State Score

Other Well-Regarded High Schools:

• Mackay State High School
• Mackay Northern Beaches State High School
• Pioneer State High School

These schools offer diverse learning environments, ensuring that students receive both academic support and opportunities to pursue their passions.

Finding the best school for your child depends on more than just academic results. Consider:

• Location & Catchment Area – Does it fit your daily commute and home location?
• Academic Performance – Check rankings, but also look at teaching quality.
• Extracurricular Activities – Sports, music, performing arts, and STEM programs.
• School Culture & Values – Some schools focus on academics, while others emphasise creativity or community engagement.

Visit schools, meet teachers, and explore open days to get a feel for the best fit.

Mackay schools provide a well-rounded education, offering:

• Sports Programs – Rugby, swimming, athletics, and more.
• Arts & Music – Dance, drama, choir, and instrumental lessons.
• Excursions & Community Programs – Overseas trips, leadership programs, and charity work.

Mackay has produced national sports legends like Cathy Freeman, proving its strong commitment to youth development in sports and beyond.

• For Academics: Whitsunday Anglican School & Holy Spirit College.
• For Arts & Music: St Patrick’s College & Pioneer State High School.
• For Sports: Mackay Northern Beaches State High School & Mackay State High School.
• For STEM: Some schools offer specialist science & tech programs – check with the school directly.

• If you want great education options, Mackay has over 40 schools to choose from.
• If you’re looking for a home near top schools, check catchment areas before moving.
• If you want schools that focus on academics, sports, or arts, Mackay has options for every child.

If you’re looking for a property near schools in Mackay, Mackay City Property can help you find the ideal home in the right school catchment area. Don’t hesitate to contact us for assistance in navigating both the educational and property landscapes to make the best choice for your family’s future.