With a prior Bachelor’s degree in Montessori Education, Jayde is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in the same field. Having previously engaged in both primary and early years education roles, she also owned and managed a Montessori childcare setting with a forest school component.

Jayde holds a position at Montessori Global Education as a STAR Accreditation Assessor. She recently presented at the European OMEP conference after receiving a student award, and she is scheduled to present at the World OMEP Conference in July. As an aspiring educational researcher, Jayde has also contributed research to the Montessori Working Papers.

Marvin José Reyes Moreno is an andragogy trainer and lecturer for the Vincerola Academy in Cologne/Aachen, Germany. He holds a BA hons in early childhood education, NLP practitioner degree and a Montessori International Diploma. He is a Sustainable Development educator and forms part of the board of directors at Vincerola International GmbH. Marvin is the main trainer at the Vincerola host centre in Cologne, Germany, certified by the STAR Accreditation from the Montessori Global Education.

Marvin is thrilled to lead his STAR Approved Host Centre in Germany offering the MCI portfolio of qualifications.  As a Host Centre, Marvin and his team take great pride in the quality of their provision. He says, “Our approach sets us apart, offering a unique and high-caliber level of input to all who engage with us. Through hands-on practice, we empower individuals to apply their knowledge in practical contexts, fostering a deeper understanding and skill development. Additionally, our extensive range of materials serves as a wellspring of inspiration, allowing participants to explore diverse perspectives and unleash their creativity. Whether it’s through innovative tools, engaging activities, or thought-provoking resources, we strive to cultivate an environment where individuals can thrive and grow. At our Centre, excellence is not just a goal—it’s a commitment we uphold in every aspect of our offerings, ensuring that each participant receives the attention, guidance, and resources they need to succeed.”

Meet Ms. Arike Disu (Aiyetigbo), the visionary behind Fountain Montessori preschools in London and Hertfordshire. As Founder and Director, she oversees a dedicated team of 80 educators, passionately guiding them to provide nurturing childcare for children aged 0 to 5 years. Arike not only champions Montessori teacher training but also actively engages parents in the community through educational initiatives.

Beyond her professional endeavors, she’s a fervent advocate for children’s well-being, contributing her expertise as a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for a Fit and Healthy Childhood.

Arike also extends her support to various charities aimed at enhancing outcomes for all children.

Helen Gration is an accomplished Managing Director with an extensive track record managing organisational resources, governance and performance within the childcare sector. Leading a Montessori-centred approach to children’s educational development and care, Helen creates an energising team of senior managers. Their cohesive ethos is to lead with integrity and to value uniqueness, so that the teams receive and therefore practice the values of respect and self-belief. In this way, each child can be supported and their rights are integral to every experience.

Helen leads a team over multiple locations across a range of services while promoting the sharing of best practice, implementing quality controls, and ensuring safeguarding protocols are embedded into everyday working practices. Able to utilise childcare knowledge and expertise to lead, coach and mentor staff to drive professional care standards while ensuring company objectives are met. Utilises confident communication skills to collaborate with colleagues, the media, and industry bodies to improve performance, drive change, and ensure service standards adhere to legislation and safeguarding regulations.

Andrea García Herrera, graduate in International Business, Montessori guide for 3-6 years old, and experienced coach, brings a wealth of experience in entrepreneurship and marketing, cultivated through work spanning diverse industries and global landscapes. Over the past 9 years, Andrea’s practice has evolved, placing a strong emphasis on self-discipline and personal leadership, particularly within her coaching practice.

She attended Montessori school until the age of 12, and her brief experience as a Montessori guide in different countries, has provided valuable insights into Montessori education and various Montessori settings. She now works as part of the community engagement team in Montessori Global Education.

Share This:

Please note: the recipient will need to be a Network member and logged in to view any socially shared content.

Perceptions of Leadership
Synopses from the Panelists