Top 5 Selective Visual Arts High Schools in Sydney — What Parents Need to Know
Looking Ahead: What Are the Options for Young Artists?
If your child has a passion for art and you're starting to look at high schools, you’ve probably asked: Are there schools that specialise in visual arts? The answer is yes — and Sydney offers a handful of excellent options that can nurture, challenge, and inspire gifted young creatives.
This guide walks you through the top five selective and specialist high schools in Sydney for visual art students, what makes each one unique, and how to start preparing now — even if you're just exploring.
🎓 1. Dulwich High School of Visual Arts and Design
NSW’s only dedicated visual arts public school
Offers advanced facilities, design tech, photography, sculpture, and traditional fine art
Entry is selective, based on a portfolio, interview, and academic history
Best suited for children who are serious about pursuing art or design long term
Parent tip: Visit the school on open days and collect past portfolio guidelines early.
🎭 2. Newtown High School of the Performing Arts
While it’s best known for drama and dance, its visual arts stream is highly respected
Entry by audition or portfolio, depending on the stream
Encourages expressive and contemporary work — great for experimental, imaginative students
Best for: Children who thrive in creative, expressive, and multi-disciplinary environments
📚 3. Chatswood High School (CAPA stream)
A comprehensive public school with a Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) stream
More balanced between academic and creative programs
Ideal for students who want a strong arts offering without the full selective pressure
🏛️ 4. Wenona, SCEGGS Darlinghurst, and PLC Sydney (Independent)
All three offer high-quality visual arts education with incredible facilities
Access to ArtExpress, student exhibitions, artist mentors
May offer scholarships for gifted students (worth enquiring early)
Great for families open to private education and seeking deeper arts engagement
🌍 5. Monte Sant’ Angelo Mercy College (IB Program)
Offers the International Baccalaureate with a visual arts pathway
Ideal for creative students interested in global perspectives and academic balance
Supports in-depth independent art projects, artist studies, and reflective writing
📌 How to Start Exploring Now
Attend school open days in Year 5 or 6
Keep your child’s artwork and sketchbooks organised
Begin documenting projects, ideas, and progress
Join a studio (like ours!) that can help build both confidence and a future-ready portfolio
We’re here to support not only the art, but the journey.