Passion For Excellence

Inspiring excellence in children.

Da Vinci Montessori always strives to inspire excellence in children by providing nurturing environment, qualified teachers and an inspiring curriculum.

  • our Story
16 Years of

Our name is inspired by Leonardo Da Vinci; one of the most talented and multifaceted  individuals in the history of mankind. 

Known popularly for his ‘Mona Lisa’, it was Leonardo Da Vinci who designed the first flying machine on the principles of which modern day airplanes are based. Additionally, Da Vinci was a mathematician, engineer, scientist anatomist, sculptor, architect, botanist, musician and writer.

We believe that every child is born with many different talents that often remain unexplored. At Da Vinci Montessori we want our children to get in touch with each of their senses, talents and emotions and thus discover themselves just as they discover the world around them.

2021

Started Elementary Program

Launched a complete Montessori Elementary Program for 6-12 years old’s – the first of its kind in South Mumbai.

2018

Third Branch Established

Da Vinci Montessori, opens doors to its third premises in Worli.

2015

Enrollment crosses 100 students

In June, Da Vinci has now over a 100 children enrolled in its programs.

2014

Second Branch Established

Adding another spacious location with sunlit classrooms, Da Vinci at Marine Drive opens for admissions.

2010

Inception of Da Vinci Montessori

With a purpose to deliver quality Montessori learning, Da Vinci is founded at Babulnath, Mumbai

The Da Vinci Vision

Our vision is to cultivate a joyous and supportive learning community where each child is empowered to reach their full potential. Grounded in the principles of Dr. Maria Montessori, we seek provide an environment that nurtures curiosity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.

The Da Vinci Mission

Our mission is to empower children to grow into adults that are independent, self-motivated individuals, who are creative thinkers, life-long learners, empathetic towards other all and are able to meet their full potential as human beings. Parents are our partners in creating a world where children feel loved, respected, and understood.

“Our education should allow our children’s minds to open up to possibilities. We are not breeding race horses but are nurturing powerful minds. We are creating a generation of thinkers who are empathetic, creative and capable.”

  • dr. Maria montessori
  • our Purpose
Nurturing The
IMG-8366.jpg
IMG_20190314_095419.jpg
why.jpg

Da Vinci Montessori has been setup with the mission to provide for children’s innate love of learning. We nurture a wide range of interests to feed their natural curiosity.

Our program inspires a passion for excellence in children, nurtures their curiosity, creativity and imagination; teaches timeless values and seeks to awaken each child’s full potential as a human being.

Our goal is to sow the seeds of knowledge and culture that will blossom in our atmosphere of kindness, respect and intellectual inquiry

0
Years of Experience
0
Certified Directress
  • Founder & School head

Ashani Hirway

Ashani has over 15 years of experience in the field of education. She has been trained to teach at and start Montessori’s worldwide by Association Montessori Internationale, headquartered in the Netherlands. She has received her 0-3 and 3-6 diplomas from AMI.

Ashani holds an MBA from Wharton School (USA) and has worked as a strategy consultant for global clients in New York and Mumbai. Prior to this Ashani worked as a hardware engineer in the Silicon Valley post her BE from Gujarat University and MS from Purdue University (USA).

While Ashani has always had a passion for education, the birth of her daughter Sanaya, inspired her to follow her heart and give in to her passion; the result of which is Da Vinci. Ashani feels grateful that both her daughters could spend their formative years at Da Vinci Montessori.

Meet the Team

Administrative Team

Ashlesha holds a postgraduate degree in Management Studies and spent nearly six years in the corporate sector. The arrival of her son and her journey as a Montessori parent at Da Vinci Montessori inspired her to pursue a career in education. She is AMI-trained and passionate about nurturing positive values and bringing joy to Montessori classrooms. Ashlesha is also certified to work with children with learning disabilities and has volunteered with an NGO supporting inclusive education.

Admissions Coordinator and Head of Operations

Veena is an AMI-certified Montessori educator (for 3–6 years) with nearly three decades of experience guiding young children through the Montessori method. She completed her certification from (RTI), Mumbai, and has since built a career spanning classrooms across Singapore, New Zealand, and Hong Kong.

She has been deeply involved in curriculum design and has facilitated professional development workshops for both educators and parents — reflecting her belief that a strong Montessori community extends beyond the classroom.

She is now overseeing curriculum design, monitoring student progress, and guiding teachers with relevant teacher professional development initiatives — ensuring that every child and educator in the community continues to thrive.

Academic Coordinator

Neha is a trained Montessori directress certified by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). With over 10 years of experience in Montessori education, she is deeply committed to the philosophy that the quality of education a child receives in their early years plays a vital role in unlocking their full potential. Neha believes that every child has the right to access nurturing, high-quality education and care, and she strives to create environments that support this vision.

Centre Coordinator, Marine Drive

Bhumika Kadakia has over 25 years of experience in the field of education. She is a trained Montessori directress with a diploma from the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) for the 3–6 age group. She has worked at well-regarded institutions including Activity High School and Da Vinci Montessori. Bhumika believes that children learn through constant exploration and adaptation, and she values the opportunity to learn from them while guiding their growth in a nurturing environment.

Centre Coordinator, Babulnath

Darshana is a law graduate with a background in corporate law, having worked with leading firms for over two years.

During a career break, she discovered her passion for working with children, which led her to pursue the AMI 3–6 Montessori Diploma from the Association Montessori Internationale, headquartered in the Netherlands. She draws on her training to guide children through a thoughtful, child-centered Montessori approach.

She also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management Studies, which complements her administrative and coordination responsibilities.

Centre Coordinator, Worli

Sanaya holds a postgraduate degree in Management Studies and brings over 5 years of corporate experience. Her passion for early childhood education led her to pursue an ECCEd certification, which eventually drew her to Da Vinci International. She finds great joy in her role as a coordinator, where she combines her organizational skills with her love for working in a nurturing learning environment.

Centre Coordinator, Da Vinci International (Elementary)

Teaching Staff

Da Vinci International (Elementary)

Suchi Shah Neww

Suchi Shah is a passionate and dedicated Montessori-trained directress from Ratan Tata Institute and Elementary Trained Directress from MIB. She has been in this profession for the last 20+ years.

Her approach is rooted in the Montessori Philosophy, which emphasises individualised learning, hands-on activities, and the development of critical thinking skills.

As an elementary directress, her goal is to guide each child on their unique educational journey, nurturing their natural curiosity, fostering independence and helping them develop the skills necessary for lifelong learning. She wishes to provide a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where the children feel valued, respected, and motivated to discover their full potential. She looks forward to contributing to the lifelong success and happiness of the children.

Directress

With over 25 years of Montessori experience and AMI Diplomas for the 3–6 and 6–12 age groups, Tina is dedicated to nurturing curiosity and inspiring a lifelong love of learning.

Tina believes that teaching is not merely about imparting knowledge; it’s about igniting curiosity and guiding each child to reach their full potential at their own pace. Over the past 25 years, she has had the privilege of shaping young minds in leading Montessori schools across Mumbai. Her journey also includes a year-long tenure as a Grade 2 Math teacher at ABWA, where she further honed her skills in fostering a love for learning.

Directress

Babulnath

Primary Program

Megha Gandhi is passionate about inspiring a love for learning in young children. With 13 years of experience in early childhood education, including over 8 years at Da Vinci, she creates a nurturing and engaging environment where every child feels valued, confident, and encouraged to reach their full potential. Trained at the Sir Ratan Tata Institute, Megha believes that learning is a lifelong journey—for both children and educators.

Directress - Primary, Babulnath

Komal G. is a certified AMI-trained Montessori directress with a background in microbiology and an MBA in Hospital Management. She brings over six years of diverse healthcare experience, including roles in diagnostic research and clinical management at institutions like Sir HN Reliance Foundation and Jaslok Hospital. Komal began her career as a lecturer at Wilson College, teaching immunology, and has always been drawn to education. She now channels her scientific curiosity and observational skills into nurturing young, inquisitive minds at Da Vinci Montessori.

Directress - Primary, Babulnath

Pooja always wanted to be a teacher. So after her graduation in Arts (Psychology & English), she trained herself with A.M.I. (RTI) and started working with Activity Infant School. She has over 14 years of experience working with children. She believes in giving the child the freedom to explore and be independent.

Directress - Primary, Babulnath

Puja is a dedicated and detail-oriented educator transitioning into the field of Montessori education, having earned her AMI Montessori 3–6 diploma. She brings a rich and diverse professional background spanning healthcare, finance, and business development, offering strong organizational, communication, and analytical skills to the classroom. Her hands-on Montessori experience includes both observation and guided teaching in prepared environments. Puja is deeply committed to the principles of child- led learning and strives to cultivate independence, curiosity, and a warm, supportive atmosphere that nurtures each child’s unique potential.

Directress - Primary, Babulnath

Toddler Program

Tejal started her career as a cabin crew with Qatar Airway but she always felt a keen desire to work with children. She completed her Montessori course at the prestigious Ratan Tata Institute (Mumbai) and has 5 years of teaching experience. As an educator, she aims to prepare children not only for higher education but also for the world we live in today.

Directress - Toddlers, Babulnath

Bijal is a commerce post-graduate from Mumbai University and after her post graduation she trained herself as an AMI Directress from Sir Ratan Tata Institute. She has several years of experience working with the children in the Toddler Montessori environment. She is passionate about being with and around children. She has an innate love for working with children and is happiest when amongst them.

Directress - Toddlers, Babulnath

Nasha holds a specialization in Management Studies and a B2 certification in French.
Her passion for the French language sparked an interest in teaching, which soon
became her true calling. Drawn to working with young children, she embraced the
Montessori philosophy and found deep purpose in early childhood education. With
hands-on experience in Montessori toddler environments, Nasha is dedicated to the
child-centered approach, firmly believing that “in the child lies the fate of the future.”

Directress - Toddlers, Babulnath

Minal Jain holds a Bachelor’s degree from H.R. College and a Post Graduate Diploma in Child Psychology. Her passion for understanding children’s development and behaviour led her to explore Montessori education, where she found a beautiful alignment between child psychology and Montessori principles. As both an educator and a DVM parent, she has witnessed the positive impact of respecting a child’s natural pace of development. Alongside her work with children, she is a passionate photographer and currently training in karate, embracing the values of observation, perseverance, and lifelong learning.

She hopes to combine Montessori principles and child psychology to support every child’s unique journey while partnering with parents along the way.

Directress - Toddlers, Babulnath

Day Care/After School Club

Priyal has a degree in economics and was drawn towards working with children early on. She decided to get a Diploma in Montessori education from the Ratan Tata Institute. She wants to instill a love of learning in toddlers through an enriching and nurturing educational experience.

Directress - Day Care/After School Club, Babulnath

Marine Drive

Primary Program

Savia is a postgraduate in English Literature from Mumbai University with over seven years of experience in hospitality sales in the Middle East. Her passion for working with children and deep respect for the Montessori philosophy led her to pursue the AMI 3–6 Montessori certification at The Ratan Tata Institute. Now a dedicated Montessori educator, Savia is committed to fostering independence, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning in young children through a nurturing, child-centered approach.

Directress - Primary, Marine Drive

Rachita is a Law graduate and has worked in the field of Corporate Laws and Arbitration for almost 7 years. Her passion for working towards creative methods of teaching made her pursue the AMI Diploma course for 3 to 6 years. After the course she got an opportunity to work at “Ratan Tata Montessori School” as a head Directress under the guidance of Ms. Zarin Malva. She has also pursued her Assistant Certificate course for 0 to 3 years directed by Ms. Julia Hilson. She is currently associated as a volunteer with “Indian Montessori Foundation” and is also a mentor with an NGO “The Light House Project”.

Directress - Primary, Marine Drive

Vishakha graduated in International Hotel Management from ITM, affiliated with Queen Margaret University, Scotland. Her Montessori journey began when she enrolled her son at Da Vinci Montessori and was inspired by its thoughtfully prepared, child-centered environment.

Motivated by the belief that every child is unique and flourishes in a safe, nurturing environment, she pursued Montessori education and is now an AMI-certified Montessori Directress.

Directress - Primary, Marine Drive

Smitha is an AMI 3–6 Montessori educator who transitioned from a successful 20-year career in IT recruitment and operations to pursue her passion for early childhood education. She is dedicated to creating a nurturing, child-centered environment where children grow with confidence, independence, and a love for learning.

Directress - Primary, Marine Drive

Toddler Program

Dhwani is a certified Montessori teacher with 0-3 Montessori Diploma from the AMI Ratan Tata Institute. She is dedicated to educating children while fostering independence and self-discipline. Dhwani believes that each child is unique and its important to recognize and nurture their potential.

Directress - Toddlers, Marine Drive

Praghya is a trained Montessori Directress certified by AMI. She also holds a Bachelors in Management Studies. Praghya believes that the Montessori System imparts education that is long lasting and helps form a child’s personality. She is excited about her journey at Da Vinci and is looking forward to working with the toddler children.

Directress - Toddlers, Marine Drive

Shuchi is a certified Montessori Directress (AMI 3–6 years) trained at RTI, with an additional certification in Montessori Sports from AMI. She also holds a Postgraduate Degree in Economics.

Her professional journey began as a part-time Professor at K.C. College. However, her deep interest in child development and education led her to dedicate her career to nurturing young learners during their formative years.

It is her passion to create enriching learning experiences that empower children to grow into capable, responsible, and compassionate individuals.

Directress - Toddlers, Marine Drive

Worli

Primary Program

Neha’s deep passion for the formative years of childhood led her to transition from corporate strategy and law into the world of Montessori pedagogy. Drawing on her Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) and MBA in Finance degrees, she found her true calling in early education—a philosophy that perfectly aligns with her belief that education is a preparation for life itself.

With over 5 years of experience as an AMI Primary (3–6) Guide and as a newly certified AMI Montessori Sports Guide, her goal is to support the whole child by beautifully weaving her years of classroom experience with purposeful physical movement. She views the classroom as a nurturing ecosystem where children build independence, confidence, and a lifelong love for discovery.

Directress - Primary, Worli

Harsha started working with children at an early age while pursuing her bachelor’s degree. With 16 years of experience and insights from her motherhood journey, she developed a fascination for child development. This led her to pursue an AMI certified diploma in Early Education. Harsha feels fortunate to have found a career she is passionate about. She is grateful to Da Vinci Montessori for the opportunity to nurture children and help them reach their fullest potential.

Directress - Primary, Worli

Karuna Lulla is a certified Montessori directress from Ratan Tata Institute and truly believes in the Montessori philosophy of following the child and supporting the child’s learning by preparing his environment. She has enjoyed her experience at Da Vinci Montessori and looks forward to working with children everyday.

Directress - Primary, Worli

Jyoti was introduced to the Montessori method of learning through her son’d educational journey. While pursuing a diploma in Montessori (3-6, primary program), she realised that a child gives birth to a directress and this is how she would like to summarise her experience thus far. She hopes to do justice and bring about change through education, while also discovering herself in the process.

Directress - Primary, Worli

Shamin Kamani is an AMI-certified Montessori educator with over eight years of experience in early childhood education. She holds a Master’s in Commerce with a focus on Business Management and is also trained in Early Childhood Education by Helen O’Grady International. Shamin has worked across reputed institutions, including Aga Khan Education Board and multiple Montessori schools. Her strengths lie in curriculum design, teacher training, and parent engagement. She is passionate about nurturing independent, confident learners through the Montessori philosophy.

Directress - Primary, Worli

For Maitri, the greatest joy of working with children comes from seeing the world through their eyes. With a Master’s degree in History and an AMI Diploma in Montessori Education, she believes in giving children the freedom to explore, make their own choices, and grow into independent learners. Creative, curious, and compassionate, she strives to create a warm and engaging environment where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to learn. She believes that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and respected because each one carries within them the potential to become who they are meant to be.

Directress - Primary, Worli

Toddler Program

Deepali Shah started her career at an accounting firm in Mumbai after completing her MCom. As an art enthusiast, her first experiences in working with preschoolers led her to the Montessori System. She obtained an AMI Certificate to guide children in the age group of 3-6 years old.
Her six years of work experience at Montessori Schools in India and abroad (USA) has given her opportunities to grow hone herself as a Montessori guide. Deepali finds working with children satisfying and fulfilling.

Directress - Toddlers, Worli

Ankita Jain completed her bachelors degree in commerce before training herself as an AMI Directress from Ratan Tata Institute.

A career as a Montessori Directress has helped Ankita combine her passion for teaching and interacting with children. Ankita enjoys guiding children in our Toddler Classroom, knowing how these early skills will equip them for life.

Directress - Toddlers, Worli

Nurvee holds a B.A. in English Literature and History and completed her Montessori training (ages 3–6) at the Sir Ratan Tata Institute. With over a year of hands-on experience in a Montessori environment, she brings both passion and insight to the classroom. She also holds a BFA in Bharatanatyam and is currently pursuing her MFA. Her foundation in the humanities and classical arts enriches her teaching, allowing her to nurture creativity, independence, and a love for learning in young children.

Directress - Toddlers, Worli

Ridhi Dhanuka holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Sophia College and has completed her AMI Training for children aged 3–6 years. With three years of teaching experience in early childhood education, she is dedicated to creating a positive and enriching learning environment for young children.

She believes that meaningful learning begins when children feel secure, valued, and encouraged to explore. Through her caring and supportive approach, she strives to nurture confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning, helping each child reach their full potential.

Directress - Toddlers, Worli

Primary Program & Day Care/After School Club

Go to Programs
Explore Environment

Shreya has been an entrepreneur and a fashion designer from – P V Polytechnic -SNDT University. She worked with retail clients like Shoppers Stop and Big Bazaar before stepping into the world of education.

She was exposed to the Montessori philosophy as a mom of two. She built on this interest by becoming a professionally qualified AMI trained Montessori directress from the Ratan Tata Institute. Her time in the classroom is generally her favorite part of the day.

Aarushi is trained by AMI at the Ratan Tata Institute to work with children in the 0-3 and 3-6 age groups. She has over 8 years of experience working with children. Her love for being with children and passion for teaching led her towards the Montessori philosophy. She enjoys learning with and from the children.

Radhika is an Arts Graduate from Mumbai University and has worked in a Montessori School from the year 2000. . She has more than 2 decades of experience working with children. 

She has an innate love for working with children and is happiest when amongst them.

Directress - Toddlers, Marine Drive

Ansira Aboobacker has completed her Primary training from Sir Ratan Tata Institute. She is passionate about the Montessori way of learning.

Karunya her graduation in engineering and then pursued her passion in the field of childhood care and education. She is a trained AMI directress from RTI and has several years of experience working with the children in Montessori environment. She feels excited to be around children.

Stasha Gonsalves holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature and Education. Her Montessori journey began after working as an assistant at a Montessori school. She is a trained AMI Directress from the Ratan Tata Institute and has worked in Thailand as a Lead Directress. She aims to prepare children for life and ignite their natural desire to learn.

Yogini Sonawala holds a Diploma in Early Child Care from Association Montessori Internationale. She has interned with Activity High School and Little Butterflies.

Directress - Toddlers, Babulnath

Priyal has a degree in economics and was drawn towards working with children early on. She decided to get a Diploma in Montessori education from the Ratan Tata Institute. She wants to instill a love of learning in toddlers through an enriching and nurturing educational experience.

Umme Aimann is a post graduate from Mumbai University. Post a decade and a half of working with MNC Banks, she decided to venture into an area that has always been her calling – working with and contributing to the holistic development of children.

Umme enjoys being around kids and financial management comes naturally to her

Dipali, an MBA graduate from Narsee Monjee, started her career as a certified jewelry designer. Yet, her true calling was in the realm of education and her love for children ignited her journey into Montessori teaching. Dipali holds a Diploma from the prestigious Ratan Tata Institute and is a AMI trained Montessori directress. Whether she’s engaging in animated discussions or sparking curiosity through hands-on activities, Dipali loves to engage children in the joyful adventure of learning.

Directress - Primary, Worli

Shopping Cart