Cranbrook School, located in Bellevue Hill, New South Wales, is a prestigious independent boys’ school renowned for its holistic approach to education. The school offers a comprehensive academic program from Kindergarten to Year 12, with a strong emphasis on intellectual rigor, critical thinking, and innovation.
Cranbrook’s curriculum is designed to nurture well-rounded individuals, with a focus on STEM, humanities, and the arts. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, science and technology labs, sports fields, and creative arts spaces, spread across its expansive campus.
Cranbrook is equally committed to co-curricular activities, offering a wide range of options in sports, music, drama, and debating. Students can participate in competitive sports like rugby, rowing, and swimming, as well as creative pursuits such as orchestra, choir, and theater productions.
The school also emphasizes leadership and community service, encouraging boys to develop resilience, empathy, and a sense of responsibility. With a strong pastoral care system, Cranbrook ensures that each student is supported academically, socially, and emotionally, preparing them not just for academic success but for life beyond school.
Basic Information
Item
Details
Name
Cranbrook School
Location
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Type
Independent day and boarding school
Education Levels
Preparatory to Year 12
Transition to Coeducation
Beginning 2026
Current Principal
Title
Name
Qualifications & Notable Facts
Head of School (Principal)
Dr Anne Johnstone
BA, LLB (Hons), MAPP (UPenn), Grad Dip Ed, MACE, CF, PhD. Awarded Australian School Principal of the Year 2024. Commences Term 3, 2025. Expert in Positive Education and Wellbeing. Previously Principal of Ravenswood School.
Student & Staff Data
Category
Data
Student Population
Approximately 1,300 (estimate as a large independent K-12 school)
Staff Members
Leadership team of senior school plus Junior school staff; includes academic, wellbeing, sports, and support staff
Leadership Team Highlights
Head of Senior School: Bob Meakin; Head of Junior School: Michele Marquet (Acting Head of School until mid-2025); Director of Student Wellbeing: Angelique Sanders; Acting Director of Academics: Adrian Harrison
Academic Performance
Metrics
Description
Curriculum
Broad academic offering including IB Middle Years and Diploma Programmes
Academic Results
Consistently strong performance in Higher School Certificate (HSC) and International Baccalaureate exams.
Academic Leadership
Experienced team focusing on leadership and curriculum innovation
Comparative Rankings
Aspect
Position
Within NSW
Among top independent schools by academic outcomes and holistic education
National Recognition
Award-winning leadership and excellence in Positive Education
Program Metrics
Programs
Description
Co-education Transition
Starting 2026, transitioning from boys-only to coeducational environment
Wellbeing Programs
Pioneering Positive Education programs led by Dr Anne Johnstone
Extracurricular
Strong offerings in sports, arts, service leadership, and outdoor education
Facilities & Resources
Facilities
Description
Campus Facilities
Modern classrooms, boarding houses, sports facilities, performing arts centre, technology labs, libraries
Digital Learning
Dedicated Director of Digital Learning and Research to support innovative teaching and research practices
Student Development
Focus Areas
Description
Leadership
Opportunities through service, leadership programs, and house systems
Wellbeing
Emphasis on positive education, mental health, resilience, and personal growth
Co-curricular
Diverse options in sports, arts, music, community service
Operational Metrics
Metric
Details
Governance
School Council and Executive Team with clear leadership roles
Key Leaders
Acting Head of School until mid-2025: Michele Marquet, Stuart Meade; New Head of School to commence Term 3, 2025: Dr Anne Johnstone
Staff Development
Professional learning programs for teaching and leadership staff
FAQ Section
Question
Answer
When does Cranbrook start coeducation?
Coeducation begins from 2026.
Who is the current Head of School?
Mrs Michele Marquet is acting Head until Term 3, 2025; Dr Anne Johnstone will assume the role at that time.
What levels does Cranbrook School cater for?
Preparatory (primary) through Year 12.
Does the school offer boarding?
Yes, Cranbrook offers boarding facilities.
What is the school’s approach to wellbeing?
Emphasizes Positive Education, wellbeing mindset development, and student support.
How can I contact Cranbrook School with questions?
Through official school contact emails or via the School Council.
