Our founding belief
“When children feel safe, respected and included, they can begin to trust themselves and the people around them.”
Derin & Bidemi Johnson
Founders, Play Studio Montessori Nurseries
Our story
A family’s Montessori experience became a place for families.
Play Studio grew from a simple conviction: children flourish when they are respected, understood and given room to become.
Derin & Bidemi Johnson · Founders
Where it began
It began with seeing our own children differently.
More than 20 years ago, Derin and Bidemi experienced Montessori as parents. They saw their children grow in independence, confidence and curiosity—and began to understand the importance of an environment that trusts children to take an active part in their learning.
Alongside their experience in community organisations, that journey planted a question: what would it look like to create this kind of thoughtful, welcoming place for other families?
That question became Play Studio Montessori Nurseries: a community built around each child’s potential and the relationships that help it grow.
Our purpose
Helping children grow in freedom, kindness, curiosity and Ubuntu.
We aim to nurture confident, compassionate and independent learners who can contribute positively to the world around them. We work alongside families and our wider community, because children grow through relationships as much as through experiences.
What guides us
People first. Learning with intention.
Our founders bring a deep respect for children’s development and the responsibility families place in a nursery. At Play Studio, that means caring relationships, purposeful environments, reflective practice and a commitment to continuous improvement.
“Building people who build people” begins with how we welcome a child, listen to a parent and support one another as a team.
A nursery is a community.
Children, families and educators each bring something important. Our work is to create the conditions for belonging, respectful partnership and shared growth.
Our story so far
Rooted in family, growing in community.
Play Studio opened in Chadwell St Mary in 2022. Since then, our work has continued to be shaped by children, families and the everyday practice of learning together.
22 February 2022
Play Studio Montessori Nurseries opens its doors.
A new early-years community begins in Thurrock, guided by Montessori principles and a belief in every child’s potential.
Your next step
We’d love you to meet us.
Visit Play Studio, see the environment and tell us what matters most to your family.