Mount Barker High School is a government co-ed secondary with a strong pastoral framework and traditional approach to learning.
NAPLAN 20 points below national year-level averages; the result is a B- overall.
Mount Barker High School is a government co-ed secondary with a strong pastoral framework and traditional approach to learning. The school specialises in vocational pathways and robotics, offering pathways beyond conventional HSC study. The Harold Mitchell Inclusive Education Centre provides tailored learning support. It suits families seeking structured schooling with hands-on vocational options and those prioritising a supportive, pastoral environment.
Mount Barker High School is also known as MBHS, Mount Barker HS and MBHS Mount Barker.
Mount Barker High School has an overall SchoolRank score of 42.2/100, rated "Slightly below average". This score is calculated from academic results, student growth, wellbeing, programs, and value for money. Academically, the school grades B− (Slightly below average) against other Australian schools. The school's ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) is 1010 (52nd percentile; the national average is 1,000).
In 2025 NAPLAN testing at Mount Barker High School, Year 7 students averaged 515 across the tested NAPLAN domains, below the national average of 540 for that year level, and Year 9 students averaged 553, below the national average of 569 for that year level. National averages are specific to each year level, because NAPLAN scores are scaled so older year levels score higher. A school-wide average can't be compared with a single national figure.
Mount Barker High School is a large government secondary school with approximately 1,061 students. It offers education for years U, 7-12. As a government school, enrolment is generally available to students living within the school's designated catchment zone. Families outside the zone may apply for out-of-area placement subject to availability.
Mount Barker High School is a government school, so there are no tuition fees. Families may be asked to contribute to voluntary school fees covering materials, excursions, and activities. The school grades B (Average) for value for money, which weighs academic results against the cost of attendance.
Mount Barker High School has a student-to-teacher ratio of 14.5:1. This is around the national average of approximately 14:1, meaning class sizes are typical for Australian schools. Support staff make up 36% of the workforce, providing additional learning assistance and pastoral care. The student attendance rate is 85%, which is below average.
The Year 12 completion rate is 98%.
Mount Barker High School is located in Mount Barker, SA, in a major city. Its ICSEA is 1010 (52nd percentile; the national average is 1,000). ICSEA measures the advantage of a school's community, from its parents' education and occupation, not the school's quality. A school with a lower ICSEA and strong academic results may be teaching particularly effectively.