Best Schools in Cairns: 20 Schools to Consider When Moving to Cairns🏫

If you’re planning a move to Cairns with your family, finding the right school is a top priority. Cairns offers a wide range of excellent public, private, and independent schools—each with its own strengths and community feel. Here’s an updated list of 20 great schools to consider, plus practical tips for families relocating to Far North Queensland.

20 Top Schools in Cairns (2026)🎓

Primary Schools 🏫

Whitfield State School – High academic performance, strong arts program
Edge Hill State School – Consistently top-rated, excellent community
Freshwater State School – Strong literacy/numeracy results
Trinity Beach State School – Great facilities, coastal catchment
Caravonica State School – Smaller, high-quality teaching
Cairns School of Distance Education – Flexible learning model
Peace Lutheran Primary School – Private, strong values-based education

Secondary Schools 🏫

James Cook University (JCU) Cairns State High School – Academic + university pathway excellence
Smithfield State High School – Modern campus, strong STEM focus
Bentley Park College (Prep–12) – Large, diverse, well-resourced
Trinity Bay State High School – One of Cairns’ oldest & most respected
Redlynch State College (Prep–12) – Strong academic and sports programs
Gordonvale State High School – Good regional reputation

Private & Independent Schools 🏫

St Augustine’s College (Boys) – Top-tier Catholic boys school
St Monica’s College (Girls) – Highly regarded girls school
Peace Lutheran College (Prep–12) – Strong academics and facilities
Freshwater Christian College – Well-rounded curriculum
Cairns Adventist College – Smaller class sizes, values-focused
Djarragun College – Strong support programs, culturally inclusive
St Andrew’s Catholic College – One of the fastest-growing, highly rated schools

Quick Insights (2026 Trends)🔥

Top academic performers: JCU Cairns High, St Augustine’s, St Monica’s
Best all-rounders: St Andrew’s, Peace Lutheran College, Redlynch State College
Most in-demand primary schools: Whitfield, Edge Hill
Fast-growing area schools: Smithfield, Redlynch

Tips for Choosing a School in Cairns🏆

Visit schools in person: Take a tour, meet teachers, and get a feel for the culture.
Check academic results: Look for NAPLAN scores, university entrance rates, and extracurricular offerings.
Consider location: Think about commute times from your new home—use our moving guides to plan.
Ask about support: Look for schools with programs for new students, learning support, and wellbeing.
Talk to local families: Community groups and social media are great for real-world feedback.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Schools in Cairns (FAQPage)❓

How do I enrol my child in a Cairns public school?

Contact the school directly for enrolment forms and catchment information.

Are there waiting lists for private schools?

Some private and independent schools do have waiting lists—apply early if you have a preference.

What’s the best suburb in Cairns for families?

Redlynch, Trinity Beach, Edge Hill, and Whitfield are all popular with families and close to top schools.

Can I visit schools before moving?

Yes! Most schools welcome tours—book ahead to meet staff and see facilities.

Where can I get more moving and school advice?

Check out our moving guides and FAQPage.

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