Australia’s Top 100 Private Schools: The Hutchins School named Tasmania's top school in national rankings

The top private schools of Australia have been ranked, with multiple Tassie institutions making the cut. See the full list.

The principal of The Hutchins School, which topped the state in News Corp’s official Top 100 Private Schools list, believes the Anglican all-boys school creates a well-rounded student prepared for the wider world.

With a focus on forming character at the centre of their school statement, Principal Dr Rob McEwan believes the values instilled in students at school “will stay with them for life”.

“Our vision statement speaks of each student achieving their personal best,” he said.

“With that driving our staff and teachers, we also ensure that we don’t conform to stereotypes, with as much focus put into our science and sports programs as our dance and music programs.”

Hutchins placed 37th in the top 100 private schools in Australia – one of five Tasmanian schools to make the list.

It ranked highly due to factors including a median ATAR score of 89.7 and a high teacher-student ratio.

“Smaller class sizes allow us to look after each student and ensure their educational needs are met; in the junior school, it’s only around 15 to 21 students in a class with strong teacher assistance,” Mr McEwan said.

“We have a smorgasbord of opportunities for students to find their passion as well – our dance program has some of the highest numbers in the country, and our music program is going from strength to strength.

“On top of traditional learning, we create students who are socially conscious, with our Year 12s choosing a charity to support every year through fundraisers – they recently raised $14,000.”

The Hutchins School Year 12 students, school vice-captain Joe Groom, school captain Kevin Shen and principal Dr Rob McEwan. Picture: Richard J. Ho-Minch

School captain Kevin Shen said it was special to watch the recent 12-hour marathon fundraiser.

“It was a proud moment as a school captain – 20 Year 12s ran a whole marathon from 8am to 8pm and raised over $14,000,” he said.

“Our charity this year is Anglicare and choosing our charity annually is about creating a connection to people outside of our school community.”

As captain, school prefect and member of the school’s music program, Kevin said the most memorable thing is how the school makes him feel.

“Every school day just feels like I’m leaving one home to go to another home,” he said.

Originally published as Australia’s Top 100 Private Schools: The Hutchins School named Tasmania's top school in national rankings