Head-to-head · 2026

Ascham School vs Kambala

Side-by-side 2026 comparison: fees, ICSEA, sector, gender, programs and boarding. Both in Sydney. Sourced from each school's published 2026 schedule and ACARA MySchool. Verified 13 May 2026.

The Education Desk · Editorial team, schools + fertility + family services · Updated 13 May 2026 · How we rank · Editorial standards

At a glance

The headline differences

  • Sector: Ascham School is Independent (non-denominational); Kambala is Anglican.
  • ICSEA gap of 11: Ascham School draws from a more advantaged community.
  • Both schools are in Sydney, so catchment + commute considerations are similar.

Comparison

Side-by-side

Metric Ascham School Kambala
City / suburbEdgecliff, SydneyRose Bay, Sydney
SectorIndependent (non-denominational)Anglican
Gendergirlsgirls
Year levelsK-Year 12K-Year 12
ICSEA12171206
Year 12 fee 2026on request$41,320
Year 7 fee 2026on request$38,280
BoardingYesYes · $32,400/yr
Founded18861887
ReligionNon-denominational independentAnglican Church of Australia

All fees verified 13 May 2026 against each school's published 2026 schedule. Excludes uniforms, technology, camps, capital + boarding (unless shown).

Ascham School

Standout strengths

  • Dalton Plan progressive education methodology (one of few in Australia)
  • Top HSC results among Eastern Suburbs girls' schools
  • Strong rowing program on Sydney Harbour

Independent (non-denominational) girls school in Edgecliff, Sydney. Dalton Plan progressive education methodology (one of few in Australia)

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Kambala

Standout strengths

  • Eastern Suburbs harbour-edge campus
  • Strong HSC results + university entry rates
  • Boarding draws from rural NSW + international

Anglican girls' school in Rose Bay, Sydney's eastern suburbs. Founded 1887. Day + boarding.

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Common questions

FAQs

Which is better, Ascham School or Kambala?

"Better" depends on family priorities. By ICSEA, Ascham School. By 2026 Year 12 fee, Ascham School is more affordable. Both are in Sydney. The most meaningful comparison is on culture, programs, transport and entry pathway for your specific child — visit open days and talk to current parents.

What are the 2026 fees for Ascham School and Kambala?

Ascham School's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $undefined. Kambala's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $41,320 (Year 7: $38,280). Both schools also charge additional levies (technology, camps, capital, uniform) typically adding 8-15% to headline tuition.

What are the ICSEA scores for Ascham School vs Kambala?

Ascham School has an ICSEA score of 1217; Kambala has 1206. The Australian median is 1000. ICSEA measures the socio-educational advantage of the school community — it correlates with academic outcomes but does NOT measure teaching quality or value-add. ICSEA is published by ACARA on MySchool.

Which school is older, Ascham School or Kambala?

Ascham School is the older school (founded 1886 vs 1887 for Kambala).

Do Ascham School or Kambala offer boarding?

Ascham School: Yes. Kambala: Yes, 2026 boarding fee from $32,400/yr.

Next step

Model the 6-year cost for either school

Project Year 7-12 tuition with 4.5% annual indexation. Add boarding, levies and sibling discounts. Compare side-by-side.

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