Our Team | Ivy House School

Inspiring Excellence in School and Beyond

Our hand-picked staff with top credentials are a testament to our vision of developing our learners’ potential – academic, social, cultural and moral. We want learners to be future leaders, inspired to seek new opportunities in school and life. All staff are committed to this vision and work hard to empower our learners with a world-class, tailored education, firmly rooted in our aims and ethos.

Donal Brennan

Headteacher

Donal Brennan is a graduate of Trinity College Dublin. He began his teaching career as a specialist English Teacher preparing children for the competitive 11+ and 13+ assessments for London and country boarding schools. He has been the Headmaster of The Hampshire School, Chelsea for the past five years. This followed from his time as Undermaster at Hill House International Junior School in Knightsbridge.

He believes that school is a cornerstone in the community, where pupil voice is at the centre of all teaching and learning. Through repeated encounters with a listening and curious adult, children learn to trust the value of their insights and opinions. By creating safe and non-judgmental learning spaces children come to believe that what they say truly matters.

SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM

Donal Brennan

Headteacher

Donal has been the Headteacher of Ivy House since September 2018. With a career spanning many years in education, he brings a wealth of experience, vision and dedication to the role. Prior to Ivy House, he served as Head of The Hampshire. His leadership has shaped the school into a welcoming, values – centred community recognised for high academic standards and exemplary pastoral care.

Raffaella Merolla

Deputy Headteacher and DSL

Raffaella is an experienced educator with over 20 years teaching in primary schools. She brings both strategic insight and heartfelt dedication to the role. Having led across a range of settings, she is deeply committed to nurturing a school culture where every child feels seen, supported and inspired to thrive. Known for her infectious enthusiasm and unwavering belief in the power of education, Raffaella champions creativity, wellbeing and high standards in equal measure. She brings a genuine care to every corner of school life.

Joanne Lynch

Head of EYFS Reception Class Teacher

Ms Jo has been an EYFS Teacher for 30 years. She joined Ivy House in 2020 and has demonstrated exceptional expertise in early childhood development ensuring every child receives a strong foundation for future learning. Ms Jo has played a central role in driving progress across the EYFS, using deep pedagogical knowledge to shape high quality provision.

OUR TEACHERS