Boarding Staff

Our Boarding staff come a variety of backgrounds and are committed to the safety and overall development of the young people in their care. Our staff are highly trained in the needs of Boarders and prioritise wellbeing and pastoral care to support adolescents living away from home.

Boarders at Peninsula Grammar have access to staff 24/7, including throughout the night where needed to support them emotionally, socially and physically.

Senior Boarding Staff, including the Head of Boarding and Deputy Head of Boarding live on campus, living alongside Boarders to support their everyday needs and overall development.

Head of Boarding

Liz Birrell joined Peninsula Grammar School as the Head of Boarding in 2024. Liz is an experienced school leader and teacher with an extensive background in residential education.

Liz’s primary focus is on the safety and wellbeing of our Boarders, as well as supporting them to be independent, resilient young men and women. Liz is an active presence within the boarding house ensuring that each child is known. Liz believes that parent partnerships are the key to success in Boarding, ensuring that parents feel supported and involved in their child’s Peninsula Grammar Journey, even when they are far away.

Liz holds a Master of Education in Guidance and Wellbeing with research into Boarders’ mental health and wellbeing. A qualified music and languages teacher, Liz has taught in both primary and secondary contexts across Australia and led boarding communities in NSW, ACT and Victoria.

Originally from Sydney, Liz lives on campus with her two dogs, George and Dolly who are regularly seen in the Boarding House, getting lots of love from the Boarders at Peninsula Grammar School.