Employer of Choice: Montessori Minds Wins at the 2026 Geelong Business Excellence Awards

We are proud to share that Montessori Minds has been named Employer of Choice at the 2026 Geelong Business Excellence Awards. The award, sponsored by the City of Greater Geelong, recognises businesses that help their people grow, both personally and professionally.

For a centre that only opened its doors in October 2023, it is a very special moment. And it belongs to every educator, cook, assistant and leader who makes Montessori Minds a place where children, and the adults who care for them, can thrive.

An award for the people behind the learning

Great early learning depends on great educators. When educators feel supported, valued and able to grow, children feel it too, in calmer rooms, warmer relationships and familiar faces greeting them every morning.

Led by founder and chief executive officer Aseem Gupta and centre head Dr Ekta Sharma, our team has built a workplace culture around three simple ideas: look after each other’s wellbeing, share leadership, and keep learning.

What the judges recognised

The judges looked closely at how we support our team day to day. Some of the things that stood out:

• A dedicated wellbeing room where staff can take a quiet moment during a busy day.
• Settlement support for team members who are new to Australia.
• Multicultural workplace practices that celebrate the many backgrounds in our team.
• A real voice in decisions, so educators help shape how the centre runs.
• More than $82,000 invested in professional development, helping educators strengthen their skills and progress their careers.

The results speak for themselves: an 80 per cent staff retention rate and 90 per cent employee satisfaction. Judge Jessica Cotter described our approach as showing “a genuine commitment to supporting its employees”, highlighting our people-first culture and investment in growth.

A community of more than 55 nationalities

Since opening, Montessori Minds has grown into a truly multicultural early learning community. We now welcome families from more than 55 nationalities, and our team of educators comes from 16 different nationalities.

That diversity is one of our greatest strengths. Children hear different languages, share different celebrations and see their own family’s culture reflected in the people who care for them every day.

Why this matters for your child

An award for being a great employer might seem like it is all about adults. But for young children, it makes a real difference:

• Familiar faces. When educators stay, children build secure, trusting relationships with the people who know them best.
• Skilled, growing educators. Ongoing training means fresh ideas and best practice in every room.
• Calm, happy rooms. Educators who feel supported bring patience, warmth and energy to their work with children.

This is what our Montessori philosophy looks like in practice: respect for every person in the community, big or small.

A big night for our extended family

Montessori Minds was also a finalist in three other categories this year: Healthy, Safe & Wellbeing; Customer Experience & Service; and Environment & Sustainability. It builds on last year, when we won the Inclusive and Accessible Business award.

Thank you

To our educators and team: this award is yours. Thank you for the care, patience and professionalism you bring every single day.

To our families: thank you for trusting us with your children and for being part of such a warm, diverse community.

And thank you to the City of Greater Geelong, the judges and the Geelong Business Excellence Awards for recognising the importance of great workplaces in our region.

Come and meet our award-winning team

Looking for Montessori childcare and kindergarten in Geelong? The best way to get a feel for Montessori Minds is to visit, meet our educators and see our classrooms in action.

Book a tour or call us on (03) 5222 8135. We’d love to show you around.

Frequently asked questions

What award did Montessori Minds win?

Montessori Minds won the Employer of Choice award at the 2026 Geelong Business Excellence Awards. The award is sponsored by the City of Greater Geelong.

What does the Employer of Choice award recognise?

It recognises businesses that help their employees reach their full potential through personal and professional growth and career opportunities.

Has Montessori Minds won Geelong Business Excellence Awards before?

Yes. Montessori Minds won the Inclusive and Accessible Business award at last year’s Geelong Business Excellence Awards.

How can we visit Montessori Minds Geelong?

You can book a tour online or call (03) 5222 8135. We are at 21–29 Princes Highway, Norlane.