Karen is trained at level AMI 0-3 Montessori Assistants to Infancy at the Maria Montessori Institute St. Petersburg, Russia. Her training was completed under the mentorship of the highly respected AMI Trainer, Patricia Wallner. Karen also holds an Early Years level 5 Diploma in Leadership for the Children and Young People's Workforce (Early Years Advanced Practice). paediatric first aid trained. 

Direct Line of Transmission: I (The Founder) Dr. Maria Montessori Developed the Montessori Method and initiated the first training courses > II (The Collaborator)Mario Montessori Maria Montessori's son and closest collaborator. He continued her work and training worldwide > III (The Pioneer of 0-3) Dr. Silvana Montanaro Trained by Mario Montessori, she was instrumental in developing the Assistants to Infancy (0-3) course curriculum > IV (The Mentor) Patricia Wallner A highly respected AMI Trainer who received her authentic training, passing the 0-3 method forward > V (The Current Educator) Karen Bell Trained under Patricia Wallner in the AMI 0-3 Assistants to Infancy course, providing direct pedagogical lineage back to the founder. 

"Through observation I guide each child to activities and materials that drive their interest, allowing the child not only to fill their desire but also gain new skills and further their development and understanding. This sensorial approach of true life experience allows a child to develop their whole self."

(T) +44 01223 301047   Email: office@smithschildren.co.uk 

Lana serves as the Deputy at the nursery, holding a vital leadership role in the daily operations and educational oversight of the setting. She is a qualified Early Years Educator, having achieved the CACHE Level 3 in Childcare and Education. This qualification provides her with a strong foundation in child development, effective pedagogical practice, and the necessary safeguarding protocols.

Lana is committed to supporting staff, maintaining high standards of care, and ensuring a positive, stimulating environment for all children. Her focus is on the seamless delivery of the nursery's educational vision and ensuring every child receives dedicated support during their foundational years.

Natalie is the dedicated Lead Educator responsible for the Montessori provision within the Children's House. Her expertise is founded on rigorous training, including the highly regarded Montessori 3-6 Diploma, earned under the tutelage of Maria Roth in Munich, Germany. She further complements this specialist knowledge with a PGCE in Primary Teaching, giving her a comprehensive understanding of early childhood and primary education continuity. Natalie guides the daily delivery of the Montessori curriculum, ensuring a high-quality, authentic experience for all children. 

Line of Direct Transmission: I (The Founder) Maria Montessori Developed the Montessori Method starting in 1907 with the opening of the first Casa dei Bambini (Children's House) in Rome >.  II (The Collaborator) Mario Montessori Maria Montessori's son and closest collaborator. He received his formal Montessori Diploma (3-6) in London in 1925 and spent his life working with his mother, assisting in her training courses, translating her work, and continuing the mission by leading the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) after her death in 1952. > III (The Trainer) Maria Roth A highly respected trainer who received her authentic training from Mario Montessori. IV Natalie Trained under Maria Roth in Munich, Germany, receiving her Montessori 3-6 Level qualification. Natalies training provides direct pedagogical lineage back to the founder. 

Paula hails from northwest Spain, a place rich in culture and history. Her passion for education began early and over the years developed a deep love for working with children, recognising the importance of nurturing their growth and potential. This passion led her to pursue a career in early childhood education. 

After gaining valuable experience working with children in various settings, Paula decided to specialise in the Montessori method, a philosophy of education that she believes aligns with her values of respecting each child's individuality and fostering independence. She completed her Montessori training at the Maria Montessori Institute in London, under the mentorship of Louise Livingston. This training has equipped her with the skills to create an environment where children are encouraged to learn at their own pace, develop critical thinking skills, and grow holistically.

In addition to her Montessori credentials, Paula holds a Level 3 qualification in Early Years and a SENCo diploma, further expanding her expertise in working with children who have special educational needs. Her extensive experience in this field allows her to provide tailored support to children with diverse needs, ensuring that each child receives the care and attention they require to thrive.

Paula's linguistic abilities are also a significant asset. She is fluent in both Spanish and English, allowing her to communicate effectively with children and parents from different backgrounds. Additionally, she has a strong understanding of Italian and Portuguese, which enhances her ability to connect with a broader community.

She completed her Montessori 3–6 Diploma at the renowned Maria Montessori Institute (MMI) in London, under the direct mentorship of AMI Trainers Heidi Philippart and Sara Brady. This rigorous training ensures her ability to create a genuine prepared environment where children are encouraged to learn at their own pace, develop critical thinking skills, and grow holistically.

Further enhancing her pedagogical expertise, Josipa holds a Master's Degree (MSc) in Class Teacher Studies (Primary Education). This combination of specialist Montessori training and advanced primary education knowledge allows for exceptional support across the early years continuum.

Josipa is fluent in both English and Croatian and continually expands her skills through specialist courses, including Autism Awareness (Level 3), Safeguarding Children Awareness, Art Therapy, and the DO-IT Project online course for Making Young Social Innovators. These diverse specialisms enrich her understanding of child development and individual learning needs.

Amy is a dedicated Early Years Practitioner who has channeled her lifelong passion for working with children into a rewarding career. She holds the CACHE Level 2 Early Years Practitioner qualification, providing her with the fundamental skills and knowledge in child development and early years practice. Amy's approach is defined by her genuine commitment to the children's success and happiness. She is motivated by the opportunity to guide and support children as they explore, learn, and achieve their developmental milestones. Amy strives to ensure every child feels encouraged and supported to reach their goals, bringing the biggest smiles to their faces through positive and engaging early years experiences.

Doville is a highly qualified Early Childhood Educator whose practice is informed by advanced academic study and valuable international experience.

She holds a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of child development theory, pedagogical strategies, and educational best practices.

Following the completion of her academic studies, Doville embarked on a practical journey through the Erasmus+ programme in Spain. This experience allowed her to immerse herself in a diverse childcare landscape, gaining valuable hands-on skills and enriching her perspective on international early years methodologies.

As a multi-lingual asset to the team, Doville is fluent in Lithuanian, English, and Italian, enabling her to communicate effectively and provide exceptional support to a broad range of children and families within our community.

Onyx is a dedicated Early Years Practitioner currently engaged in professional development while studying for the CACHE Level 2 in Childcare. Onyx's key professional interest lies in early childhood development, particularly the nuances of how certain developmental differences and disabilities affect learning and social emotional growth in the early years. With the aim is to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to provide specialised, compassionate support that enables these children to flourish and achieve their full potential during their foundational years.

Marcia is a highly experienced Early Years Practitioner dedicated to providing nurturing and high-quality care, with 15 years of continuous service in childcare and education.

She holds both CACHE Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications in Early Years and Childcare, ensuring she maintains a strong foundational knowledge in child development and educational practice.

Further enriching her professional insight, Marcia is a mother to three children, providing her with a valuable parent's perspective on the needs, milestones, and joys of family life. She is a familiar and trusted colleague, committed to fostering a supportive and stimulating environment for all children under her care.

Sniha is a highly motivated Early Years Assistant who is demonstrating a strong commitment to professional growth by actively studying towards the CACHE Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification. She already possesses a robust foundational understanding of child welfare and development, holding a Level 3 qualification in Health and Social Care with a specific focus on early years. This background provides valuable insight into the holistic well-being and support needs of young children. Sniha brings practical experience to the role, having worked effectively with children under the age of eight. She is dedicated to applying both her academic knowledge and hands-on skills to create a nurturing and supportive environment where children feel secure and motivated to explore and learn.

Rebecca is a motivated Early Years Assistant who is actively studying for the Level 3 qualification in Childcare, having already accumulated two years of practical experience within the sector.

She is dedicated to creating an engaging and joyful environment, and particularly enjoys playing games and singing with the children to support their cognitive development and social interaction.

Uniquely, Rebecca holds a Level 3 qualification in Games Development. This specific background provides a creative and analytical perspective on structure, problem-solving, and engagement, enabling her to design and implement highly stimulating, educational activities that capture the children’s imagination and foster early critical thinking skills.