Maple Bear Canadian Preschool is one of the most successful Preschool Franchise in India. It has recently received the Women’s Most Trusted Brand award as well. Hazel Siromoni, Managing Director Maple Bear India tells us about her story and the brand.

Tell us about your journey. How and when did you join Maple Bear?

While my journey with Canadian education began in 1997, Maple Bear story started in 2003 with an opportunity of showcasing Canadian Education strengths and Early Childhood education which was the need of the hour in India. This was what many of Indian High School principals and educationist shared with us and Maple Bear was born in 2004. I have been associated with Maple Bear right from the start in conceptualizing and launching the first 3 Maple Bear Canadian Preschools in 2005 in India. Maple Bear has now expanded to 16 different countries with over 350+ schools.

You have been awarded by the Canadian Governor for your contribution to Education, What’s your plan for Maple Bear?

Yes I received this prestigious award from the Governor General of Canada (equivalent to President of India) for contribution in building Canada India relations in education sector especially through Maple Bear.

We have spent more than a decade ensuring that we were rolling out the best Early Childhood education program; that is current and constantly innovating in bringing best teaching and learning strategies for young learners. The Maple Bear program is a living, breathing curriculum that is constantly being updated. We will continue to strive in providing Quality Early Childhood Education which is important for the overall development of children. The first six years in a child’s life are very critical as the rate of development in these years is the fastest. Children need a stimulating environment during these years so that they can reach their full potential and develop in a holistic manner. We constantly are responding to the need of parents and have  added Bear Care program providing child care services so that working mothers can return back to work.

Tell us about the team?

Maple Bear was formed & developed in the experienced hands of President Mr. Rodney Briggs and Vice President Mr. Gerald Macleod.Mr. Briggs is responsible for building the network in the Asia-Pacific region & Mr. Macleod is responsible for the development and implementation of Maple Bear educational programs and teacher training worldwide. Alok Modi, Chairman, Maple Bear South Asia is an Engineer known for his forward- looking approach to business. He plays a vital role in the Group with his expertise in conceptualizing, strategizing and setting up new ventures.

Do you see Maple Bear emerging as one of the biggest brands in South Asia?

Yes I see Maple Bear emerging as one of the biggest brands not only in South Asia but globally. Maple Bear’s commitment is to provide best of Canadian education for global future in a sustainable way, keeping long term goals of providing nurturing and child centric programs. Maple Bear brings the best of Canadian bilingual education to the world by offering high quality education to prepare students to succeed in life.

Any message to the Working Mothers?

As working mothers we are challenged in finding a safe and child centric choice of care and preschool and at Maple Bear we hope that we are able to offer you that solution and peace of mind. Maple Bear is very dear to me as when the idea of Maple Bear was being conceptualized, I as a working mother was struggling in finding a preschool for my little one and that is when I personally felt this was such a tremendous need. The requirement of having a safe, loving, and child centered preschool and care-giving centre which is structured and has quality assurance is what we have tried to address. Many women want to go back to their jobs without having to give up their career for which they struggle deeply especially on emotional level. My only advice is that as a mother your gut level will definitely guide you in making the best choice but also keep in mind the focus on areas that are beyond the optics but more focused on the child – choosing a program (Preschool or crèche) that is engaging children in a meaningful way with a purpose and structure & preparing them with a strong foundation.

Parents to know more about this preschool, Register Here.