Well-rounded performers. On-stage. On a court. In the classroom.

The McDonald College is truly the only school of its kind in Australia.  

We are an independent, non-denominational, co-ed K – 12 school located in North Strathfield, Sydney. We specialise in performing arts and elite sports, with an equal focus on academic rigour.

• Acting 
• Classical Ballet 
• Contemporary Dance 
• Dance (Commercial) 
• Music 
• Musical Theatre 
• Technical Production 
• Elite Tennis 
• Rhythmic Gymnastics

Students love The McDonald College because here they find their people, people who appreciate their individuality and value their diverse interests. Parents love The McDonald College because we place equal emphasis on academic rigour and the pursuit of their child's passion.

Studies show that when students are doing something they love, they perform better at school and flourish as individuals preparing for life beyond school.

Boarding

We can provide up to 45 boarders of all genders from Years 7 – 12 a home away from home. Boarders come from the world over – from Canada to Cooma and as close as Concord.

Our primary focus is to provide a secure, safe, caring and family-orientated environment. An environment where your child can develop academically, socially, physically, morally and emotionally. All while pursuing their passion – whether that be in performing arts or elite sports.

Our strong community values, together with holistic guidance and support for our boarders, creates close family-like relationships that last long after graduation.

Partnerships

Uniquely, we have forged partnerships with the Sydney Dance Company, Australian Theatre for Young People, Voyager Academy of Tennis and Synergy Gymnastics Academy. These partnerships offer students pathways to the future with industry training of the highest calibre. 

We offer boarding for 45 students of all genders from Years 7 - 12. Boarders come from the world over – from China to Cootamundra and as close as Concord. 

Our boarding house is designed to provide increased levels of privacy as students become more independent and mature. Our strong community values, together with the guidance and support for boarders, creates close family-like relationships that last long after graduation. Our chef provides nutritional varied meals making dinner time a highlight of the day. 

Facilities

Science laboratories, nine dance studios, Pilates studio, acting studios, music and ensemble rooms, 60-seat theatrette, library, art studios, darkroom and digital laboratory, conference centre, TV and recording studio.

Performing arts opportunities

Our performing arts students are offered many opportunities to perform throughout the year including at our High Performance Season, An Evening of Classical Ballet, showcases, various plays, eisteddfod groups, and more. Additionally, we offer an Elite Masterclass Series with respected industry professionals and the popular International Summer School.

Alumni

We count amongst our alumni Emma Watkins (the former Yellow Wiggle), Bojana Novakovic (2022 Silver Logie nominee for Most Popular Actress), and Meg Mac (singer / songwriter). Dimitri Kleioris is with Sydney Dance Company, Harrison Lee is an artist at The Royal Ballet in London. Emily Flannery is a company dancer with Bangarra. Tim Draxl (actor, musical theatre).

Dimity Clancey (A Current Affair), Mariam Saab (ABC News), and Hollie McKay covers humanitarian and diplomatic crises from the frontlines of global war zones. Tennis player, Micheal Zhang, who achieved an ATAR of 99.95 is now studying mathematics and economics at Harvard on scholarship. All keeping good company with our graduates who are working as doctors, lawyers, teachers and business leaders.

Open Days and Auditions

Throughout the year, we hold a series of Open Mornings, Open Days – in addition to Auditions for entry into Years 5 – 11. Principal’s Tours / Zoom Tours are available by Appointment.