2 minute read
Beginner's Corner Montessori
Mary O’Sullivan O’Keeffe grew up in Newmarket, and in 2007, she re-purposed her childhood home into a dual purpose; their family home and her business Beginners Corner Montessori. Here, they care for 25-30 children from 2 and a half years to school going age, as well as a free pre-school service for eligible children. The business offers both the ECCE and NCS government childcare programmes.
From the get go, Mary wanted it to be an intimate space, somewhere loving and fun, but with high quality care.
Remaining a small business has allowed Mary and her team to build very strong relationships with the families they meet.
The team ensure each and every child that passes through their care is spoken to with love and affection at all times and a sense of self worth and belonging is promoted amongst the children.
Montessori focuses on allowing choice to stimulate children’s needs. This leads to exercises that are fun but engage their understanding of shapes, nature, exploration, building, colouring, and more.
Their outdoor area is ideally suited to Irish weather as it has a covered space as well as a “Nature Hero” winning garden space. The children are encouraged to explore, plant seeds, feed birds, and engage in what the great outdoors has to offer.
Beginners Corner see the responsibility they have as educators; positive language and reassurance are vital from childcare staff as it is key to children’s growth and well-being. A stand out during the year is their Christmas Charity event. Santa waits in the willow den in their beautifully lit garden with hot chocolate available for visitors; a truly magical addition to an already beautiful space.
We are thrilled and excited to be nominated for the Women Led Business award. I am very proud of our team and the quality of service and education we provide, so it is really lovely to be acknowledged by the wider community
