I’ve always been fascinated by languages — curious about how people connect across cultures. Growing up in Italy, I dreamed of living abroad, and when I moved to London, that dream evolved into something even more meaningful: helping others discover the joy of learning Italian.
After graduating in Intercultural Studies from the University of Florence, I earned a Master’s in International Liaison and Communication at the University of Westminster. Those experiences shaped my belief that language is more than grammar — it’s about connection, confidence, and culture.
In 2018, I began offering 1:1 lessons rooted in fun, creativity, and real conversation. That vision soon grew. Today, Love Live Italian is a welcoming school and community, with five fantastic teachers and a variety of courses — from group classes to private lessons, book clubs to pasta nights — all designed to help you live the language, not just learn it.
Wherever you’re starting from — beginner, returner, or advanced learner — we’re here to support your journey, and to make learning Italian an experience you genuinely enjoy.
Our Team
Meet the passionate educators behind Love Live Italian.
Irene Malentacchi
Founder
Irene is the founder of Love Live Italian and a passionate teacher of Italian language and culture. Originally from Italy, she studied Intercultural Studies at the University of Florence and later earned a Master’s in International Liaison and Communication from the University of Westminster in London.
Since 2018, Irene has been helping students connect with Italian through joyful, immersive learning. Her lessons are warm, interactive, and rooted in real-life experiences — from group classes and private sessions to book clubs and cultural events. With a background in teaching and cross-cultural communication, she’s built a community where learners of all levels feel supported, inspired, and excited to speak Italian.
Serena Petrone
Teacher
Serena has been teaching Italian since 2005. She holds a degree in Foreign Languages and Literature from the University of Salerno and later specialised in foreign language teaching at International House, London. She also earned the DILS-PG certificate from the University of Perugia.
In London, Serena has taught at institutions such as the University of the Arts and the American School. She is also the author of courses and workshops on learning Italian through traditional Italian dance, presented at colleges and at the Language Show London.
Her deep passion for Italian art and culture makes her lessons original, interactive, and always inspiring.
Alessia D’Aleo
Teacher
Alessia has been teaching Italian since 2009. Born in Naples and raised in Palermo, she studied Classics in Palermo and earned a degree in Ancient History from La Sapienza University in Rome, later completing a PhD in History of Religions between Rome and Berlin.
During her PhD, she earned the DITALS certification and began teaching Italian to political refugees in Rome. Since moving to England in 2014, she has continued her teaching career, completing a PGCE in Classics and teaching both high school students and adults of all levels.
Alessia blends the communicative method with her background as a linguist and classicist, enriching her lessons with insights into Italian history and culture.
Giovanna Giangrande
Teacher
Giovanna was born and raised in Naples, where her love for teaching began. She holds a degree in Economics and earned her DITALS I certificate from the Leonardo Academy of Salerno in 2016.
Her teaching journey started in Italy, where she volunteered to teach Italian to immigrants. After moving to London, she worked in after-school and integrated courses across primary schools, specialising in Italian as a second language. She combines different approaches to suit her students, always focusing on interactive, communicative learning.
Giovanna also has experience as a Group Leader for international summer camps and, since 2022, has worked at South Essex College as a Student Learning Coach. In 2024, she completed a TEFL Level 5 Diploma to further expand her teaching expertise.
Federica Guida
Teacher
Federica is a certified Italian teacher with international experience, having taught learners of different ages and backgrounds. She loves sharing the Italian language and culture in an engaging, practical way that helps students build confidence.
Alongside teaching, Federica has a lifelong passion for dance and movement. Ten years ago, she discovered yoga and later trained as a certified yoga teacher. She continues to explore how movement and mindfulness enrich her life and teaching practice.
Patrizia Lombardo
Teacher
Patrizia has over 22 years of teaching experience, including early years teaching in London. For the past 15 years, she has specialised in children’s language learning, making Italian accessible and enjoyable from the very beginning.
She works with bilingual children with Italian parents as well as those learning Italian out of personal interest. Her lessons are playful and interactive, using games, songs, role play, and creative activities such as seasonal letters and handouts. Rather than putting pressure on children, she gently models the correct language, helping them gain confidence naturally.
We're hiring!
We’re currently looking for passionate Italian teachers based in London to join our team.
If you’re interested, please send get in touch with us.
Our Teaching Philosophy
Embracing language through authentic experiences
At Love Live Italian, we believe language learning should be joyful, personal, and rooted in real-life connection. Here’s how that shapes every lesson we teach:
Learning Through Connection
We know that language comes alive through interaction. Whether it’s in a small group, a 1:1 session, or a lively club, our focus is on real conversations — not memorisation. We create a warm, encouraging space where speaking Italian becomes natural.
Enrol
Embracing Mistakes
Mistakes aren’t failures — they’re proof that you’re trying. Our teaching approach welcomes missteps as part of the learning journey. We offer gentle guidance, constructive feedback, and lots of encouragement so you can build confidence with every word.
Enrol
Cultural Immersion
Italian is more than grammar — it’s food, film, gestures, music, and connection. From cooking classes to book clubs and movie nights, we bring culture into the classroom to help you absorb the language the way it's actually lived.
Enrol
Individual Learning Paths
No two learners are the same. That’s why we tailor our lessons to your pace, goals, and interests. Whether you’re a shy beginner or a fluent speaker wanting to refine grammar, we’ll meet you where you are and help you move forward.
Enrol
La Dolce Vita, One Lesson at a Time
See how our students are bringing Italian into their lives — and having fun doing it.
