The Montessori approach recognizes that a child is more responsive to certain learning experiences at particular times or “sensitive periods.” Our staff have a deep understanding of child psychology, physiology and developmental planes. In our work, we ensure that each child is approached individually without interrupting their chosen workcycles and with respect to their genuine needs and interests and with the well-being of the group in mind. We partner with parents to provide the most positive learning and living experience to each child.

Our classrooms are only intended for work and no naps are offered at school. We respect children's privacy and suggest that all naps take place at home. When a child is ready to work in the classroom for more than three hours a day and is not taking naps anymore, we will offer a full day program to them. We respect family diets and each child's medical limitations thus no lunch is offered by the school. Children bring their own lunch boxes and sit down for lunch at the communal table. Snacks are provided by the school at any time.

Valentina Zaytseva
Head of School

After a few years in international business consulting, Valentina is now focusing on education management. A graduate of Moscow State University in Russia and Tufts University in the USA, Valentina is also trained by Association of Montessori Teachers of Russia to work with children between 0 and 6 years of age. Before starting the school, Valentina travelled to the United States to visit schools accredited by Association Montessori Internationale and American Montessori Society. To get in touch with Valentina, e-mail her at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Joanne King
Lead Teacher

Joanne has a strong background in international Montessori education. A British citizen, she has lived in Thailand, Japan and India. Joanne has solid experience of working in multicultural classrooms and knows how to work effectively with children whose native language is not English. With 12 years of teaching experience, Joanne holds a 3-6 and a 6-12 diplomas from Association Montessori Internationale and a 0-3 diploma from North American Montessori Centre. This unique qualification is a true asset to our school.

Eleonora Galyuk
Toddler Teacher

Eleonora has studied in Russia, United States and Japan. In addition to her native Russian skills, she speaks fluent English and Japanese. Eleonora's experience in business and in childhood education is truly helpful to her role with our school.

Jeyla Shikhlinskaya
Parent Infant Class Guide

She is a certified child and family psychologist and holds a Master's degree from Webster University. Jeyla has considerable experience working with international families in Europe and in Moscow. Jeyla leads our Parent Infant Classes.

Yana Knignitskaya
School Assistant

Yana is a graduate of Higher School of Economics. In addition to her native Russian and fluent English skills, she also speaks Ukrainian.

Nina Mishanina
School Assistant

Nina has diverse professional experience and two university diplomas, one of those in Psychology. She is currently getting her training at the 3-6 course at Moscow Montessori center associated with AMI.