Why we are here – A word from the Director
Our School started in 1998, with only a handful of children – my own and those of some friends.
I realized, without knowing much about the Montessori system of education – I was already half a ‘montessori-an’ at heart – believing in and practicing some of Dr Montessori’s ways with my own children. This made the journey of opening my own school more personal and meaningful. I wanted everyone around me to experience this amazing way of learning and living.
With a passion for making a real difference, my team and I set out to change the traditional concept of education, to make learning an enjoyable and holistically enriching experience for all those involved.
Through all the ups and downs we have stayed true to our vision of creating a unique school. In doing so we have surrounded ourselves with determined staff and passionate educators who have helped us create a conducive learning environment which nurtures every child to reach their full potential. It is this team which has built a strong foundation that will allow us to continue our path of delivering excellent education to our children.
MLC is a school with a purpose. We are here to make a difference. Our goal is to raise bright, enthusiastic and happy children who can drive positive change in our world.
Mrs Gilbert, our Primary and Secondary Head Teacher
The most fertile environment for such growth is one like MLC Schools, which particularly welcomes initiatives in personalised learning, differentiation, creative and critical thinking, resilience training, problem-solving and leadership opportunities. Teacher-focused ‘chalk and talk’ needs to be replaced by a far more flexible and effective form of curriculum delivery that is more akin to ‘facilitation’.
In these complicated times, a school more than ever has a crucial role in equipping young people for the challenges they will face. I believe that students should begin to hone their skills of leadership, independent learning and communication long before they reach the Sixth Form and I believe that opportunities for students to develop these important life skills should be offered from the youngest age.
In the 25 years I have worked in Senior Leadership roles, I have seen the ‘all through’ model work to outstanding effect, particularly with regard to pastoral care, student welfare and the quality of relationships between each member of the school community. As MLC Schools grows towards its fullest extent, it will be an important part of my role to bring together the teaching expertise, resources and student bodies of the Kindergarten, Primary and Secondary sections of the school, to everyone’s advantage.
My vision is for MLC Schools to be a vibrant learning community of young people who exude self-confidence, academic excellence and a strong sense of community spirit. Our learning environment really is the ‘best of both worlds’: the structured, academically rigorous English National Curriculum delivered mindfully with an ethos that fosters the whole person and celebrates uniqueness. This is an ideal education to me.
A few words from our Head Of Kindergarten, Mrs Puneet Hunjan-Patel
There are some careers we choose, and others that seem to choose us. For me, education has always felt like the latter.
My journey began with my Montessori training, where I fell in love with the world of the child. I was captivated by Maria Montessori’s understanding of children — not just her beautifully purposeful materials, but the philosophy behind them: that children are naturally curious, capable and eager to discover the world when given the right environment.
I started my career two decades ago, and that belief has shaped the educator I am today.
I believe the Early Years are about far more than what a child can read, write or count. They are about building confidence, independence, curiosity, resilience, kindness and a genuine love of learning — the foundations that prepare children not just for school, but for life.
Children learn best when they are involved and given the freedom to explore, question, create and get their hands messy. What continues to inspire me most are the little moments: a child managing something independently, a quiet child finding their voice, a question that makes everyone think, or the proud smile of “I did it myself!”
After many years in education and leadership, I still feel lucky to do what I do. Every day brings new possibilities, new discoveries and new little people to inspire.
Although my career has grown beyond Montessori, its principles remain at the heart of how I see children and education. I am always asking: What kind of person are we helping this child become? Education isn’t just about preparing children for the next stage of school — it’s about preparing them for life, and helping them believe they can make their own mark on the world.
This is what makes me so passionate about being part of MLC Schools. Our vision resonates deeply with me: that every child has a voice, a unique identity and the potential to become the best version of themselves — feeling seen, heard, valued and loved, while gaining the confidence and freedom to discover who they are.
My hope for every child who passes through our doors is that they leave not only with knowledge, but with a strong sense of self, a curious mind, a kind heart and the courage to embrace the world around them — believing in themselves, valuing others, and approaching life with curiosity, confidence and compassion.
Because ultimately, the greatest measure of our success as educators isn’t what our children know, but who they become. That is what makes me so deeply committed to education, and so proud to be part of the MLC Schools community.
