A Leap of Faith, Kept Close to Home – Celebrating 10 Years of Boarding at Macquarie Anglican Grammar School

Share

This episode takes us to Macquarie Anglican Grammar School (MAGS) in Dubbo for a milestone moment for them at the end of last year: the first cohort of boarders to complete the full six-year journey from Year 7 to Year 12 at this growing regional boarding school.

First, Amanda chats with Eli Kinscher, Director of Boarding, about what it means to lead a regional, co-ed boarding community – and why boarding closer to home can be a game-changer for rural and remote families. 

Eli paints a picture of MAGS’ unique rural boarding campus just outside town, the rise of weekly boarding, and the culture they’ve built with families over the past decade.

Then we hear from Abbey Medcalf, a boarder from Tottenham who completed Year 12 last year, reflecting on small-town life, early homesickness, finding her people, and the opportunities that helped her grow – from sport and community connections in Dubbo to her next big dream: studying Music Performance in Sydney.

A warm, honest listen for any family considering boarding – especially those hoping for opportunity without feeling worlds away from home.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Share

Name

Expo activities

Vote for
your favourite school
at an expo for a chance
to WIN $1,000!

From panel experts, to scholarship opportunities, to prizes

The School of the EXPO Award celebrates genuine connection between families and schools. Voted on by families attending each event, the award recognises schools that stand out for their friendliness, presentation, and knowledge of boarding life. It’s a fun, interactive way for families – and their children – to engage with the schools in the room, while giving exhibitors valuable feedback on what resonates most. Each winning school receives a free registration for the following year’s Expo in recognition of their excellence.

Join the Circle 

Be part of the community   

Connect with fellow boarding school families, and share in a collective of wisdom, support and love.

Login