Head-to-head · 2026
Pembroke School vs Pulteney Grammar School
Side-by-side 2026 comparison: fees, ICSEA, sector, gender, programs and boarding. Both in Adelaide. Sourced from each school's published 2026 schedule and ACARA MySchool. Verified 13 May 2026.
At a glance
The headline differences
- Sector: Pembroke School is Independent (Non-denominational); Pulteney Grammar School is Anglican.
- Pembroke School offers boarding; Pulteney Grammar School is day-only.
- ICSEA gap of 24: Pembroke School draws from a more advantaged community.
- Pulteney Grammar School is the older school (est. 1847 vs 1974).
- Both schools are in Adelaide, so catchment + commute considerations are similar.
Comparison
Side-by-side
| Metric | Pembroke School | Pulteney Grammar School |
|---|---|---|
| City / suburb | Kensington Park, Adelaide | Adelaide CBD, Adelaide |
| Sector | Independent (Non-denominational) | Anglican |
| Gender | co-educational | co-educational |
| Year levels | ELC-Year 12 | Reception-Year 12 |
| ICSEA | 1182 | 1158 |
| Year 12 fee 2026 | $32,601 | $33,074 |
| Year 7 fee 2026 | $29,544 | $28,432 |
| Boarding | Yes | Day school |
| Founded | 1974 | 1847 |
| Religion | Non-denominational | Anglican Church of Australia |
All fees verified 13 May 2026 against each school's published 2026 schedule. Excludes uniforms, technology, camps, capital + boarding (unless shown).
Pembroke School
Standout strengths
- ›IB Diploma alongside SACE pathway
- ›Hearing Unit for hearing-impaired students
- ›Up to 125 boarders Years 7-12
Independent (Non-denominational) co-educational school in Kensington Park, Adelaide. IB Diploma alongside SACE pathway
See full profile →Pulteney Grammar School
Standout strengths
- ›Kurrajong outdoor education centre at Mount Compass
- ›One Degree extension program for senior students
- ›City-edge campus on South Terrace
Anglican co-educational school in Adelaide CBD, Adelaide. Kurrajong outdoor education centre at Mount Compass
See full profile →Common questions
FAQs
Which is better, Pembroke School or Pulteney Grammar School?
"Better" depends on family priorities. By ICSEA, Pembroke School. By 2026 Year 12 fee, Pembroke School is more affordable. Both are in Adelaide. 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 Pembroke School and Pulteney Grammar School?
Pembroke School's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $32,601 (Year 7: $29,544). Pulteney Grammar School's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $33,074 (Year 7: $28,432). Both schools also charge additional levies (technology, camps, capital, uniform) typically adding 8-15% to headline tuition.
What are the ICSEA scores for Pembroke School vs Pulteney Grammar School?
Pembroke School has an ICSEA score of 1182; Pulteney Grammar School has 1158. 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, Pembroke School or Pulteney Grammar School?
Pulteney Grammar School is the older school (founded 1847 vs 1974 for Pembroke School).
Do Pembroke School or Pulteney Grammar School offer boarding?
Pembroke School: Yes. Pulteney Grammar School: Day school only.
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.
Open calculator →