Dr Mark Merry

Dr Mark Merry has had wide teaching and leadership experience in schools in both Victoria and Tasmania. He is currently Principal of Yarra Valley Grammar School in Melbourne.

Dr Merry was educated at Whitefriars College Donvale and began his teaching career in 1985. He taught History and Legal Studies and has lectured in Educational Psychology and Classroom Management at the University of Tasmania. He holds a Bachelor of Education degree from Victoria College, a Master of Educational Studies from Monash University, and a Doctorate in Education from La Trobe University. Dr Merry’s association with Monash University extends to his two sons, Alister who graduated from the Monash Law School in 2019, and Simon who is undertaking postgraduate studies in the Faculty of Arts.

Dr Merry has returned to Monash University to offer advice to preservice teachers on applying for positions in independent schools. He is also committed to advising teachers on how best to aspire to leadership positions in schools. Dr Merry has been prominent in the media in the discussion about social media and young people. His studies in history and psychology have been invaluable in his work as a school leader as they have helped him to understand groups and individuals.

Dr Merry spent nine years as Deputy Principal in two schools before becoming Principal of Marcellin College in 2001 and Principal of Yarra Valley Grammar School in 2009. He was the Victorian and National Chair of the Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia (AHISA) which is the peak body for independent school leaders in Australia. He is now Chair of the Associated Grammar Schools of Victoria (AGSV).

An avid reader, Dr Merry has an abiding love of history.