Head-to-head · 2026
Pulteney Grammar School vs Wilderness 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: Pulteney Grammar School is Anglican; Wilderness School is Independent (Non-denominational Christian).
- Gender: Pulteney Grammar School is co-educational; Wilderness School is girls.
- Wilderness School offers boarding; Pulteney Grammar School is day-only.
- ICSEA gap of 20: Wilderness School draws from a more advantaged community.
- Pulteney Grammar School is the older school (est. 1847 vs 1884).
- Both schools are in Adelaide, so catchment + commute considerations are similar.
Comparison
Side-by-side
| Metric | Pulteney Grammar School | Wilderness School |
|---|---|---|
| City / suburb | Adelaide CBD, Adelaide | Medindie, Adelaide |
| Sector | Anglican | Independent (Non-denominational Christian) |
| Gender | co-educational | girls |
| Year levels | Reception-Year 12 | Reception-Year 12 (with Year 13) |
| ICSEA | 1158 | 1178 |
| Year 12 fee 2026 | $33,074 | $28,515 |
| Year 7 fee 2026 | $28,432 | on request |
| Boarding | Day school | Yes |
| Founded | 1847 | 1884 |
| Religion | Anglican Church of Australia | Non-denominational Christian |
All fees verified 13 May 2026 against each school's published 2026 schedule. Excludes uniforms, technology, camps, capital + boarding (unless shown).
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 →Wilderness School
Standout strengths
- ›Year 13 gap-year style program
- ›Up to 80 boarders
- ›Round Square global member school
Independent (Non-denominational Christian) girls school in Medindie, Adelaide. Year 13 gap-year style program
See full profile →Common questions
FAQs
Which is better, Pulteney Grammar School or Wilderness School?
"Better" depends on family priorities. By ICSEA, Wilderness School. By 2026 Year 12 fee, Wilderness 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 Pulteney Grammar School and Wilderness School?
Pulteney Grammar School's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $33,074 (Year 7: $28,432). Wilderness School's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $28,515. Both schools also charge additional levies (technology, camps, capital, uniform) typically adding 8-15% to headline tuition.
What are the ICSEA scores for Pulteney Grammar School vs Wilderness School?
Pulteney Grammar School has an ICSEA score of 1158; Wilderness School has 1178. 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, Pulteney Grammar School or Wilderness School?
Pulteney Grammar School is the older school (founded 1847 vs 1884 for Wilderness School).
Do Pulteney Grammar School or Wilderness School offer boarding?
Pulteney Grammar School: Day school only. Wilderness School: Yes.
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 →