Meet Alana Murdoch, Head of Boarding

Since joining MLC at the beginning of the year as Head of Boarding, Alana Murdoch has quickly immersed herself in the life and community of the boarding house.

While she did not originally set out to work in boarding schools, Alana says she discovered her passion for boarding early in her teaching career and immediately knew she had found the right fit.

Originally from North East Victoria, where her parents owned a local supermarket, Alana describes herself as “a country girl at heart” and says her upbringing shaped her understanding of the opportunities boarding can provide young people. 

“I really feel like boarding would have opened up opportunities and experiences for me growing up,” she says. “That sense of independence and everything these students get to experience through boarding is really special.” 

Now in her 20th year of teaching, with 19 years connected to boarding, Alana says helping girls feel safe, supported and genuinely cared for is central to boarding life. 

“We feel deeply privileged to be able to look after somebody else’s child,” she says. 

Living onsite with her family, including her young daughters and much-loved dogs, Alana is already embracing the warmth and spirit of MLC Boarding.

At the recent Boarders Birthday celebration, the students created an ‘op-shop wedding’ theme for the party before spontaneously deciding the family dogs should become part of the festivities. 

“It was hilarious,” she recalls.

Alana believes consistency, fairness and strong relationships help create a genuine sense of home for boarders. 

“When girls know they are safe, supported and heard, they feel comfortable being themselves,” she says. “It’s often the small day-to-day moments, conversations and encouragement that matter most.” 

One of the most rewarding aspects of her role is witnessing students grow in confidence and independence.

“You see a Year 7 student arrive and, over time, watch her blossom into an articulate young adult who is ready to take on the world,” she says.

Asked what she hopes girls remember most about their boarding years, Alana’s answer is simple. 

"That somebody cared for them, and that they always knew someone was in their corner supporting them," she says.

“Above all, we want every girl to feel known and valued. When our students leave boarding at MLC, we hope they do so with lifelong friendships, treasured memories and the confidence to embrace whatever comes next.”