Our Inspiration & Story
The roots of Learning Matters go back to the 1960s, since Mrs. Pushpa Talwar , ran a Montessori School in Kanpur.
Her daughter, our founder, Mrs. Sonya Philip , M.Ed., grew up surrounded by child-centred conversations, thoughtful practices, and a deep sense of care. That early environment shaped her philosophy and life's work - and continues to inspire everything we do at Learning Matters today.
Mrs. Sonya Philip grew up to become an Early Childhood educator & taught for almost two decades at the American Embassy School in New Delhi. However, it was as a mother that she went to pursue another Masters in the US to understand her own son’s learning profile. Upon return in 2004, she established Learning Matters.
Our Journey
2005
Student Success Begins in New Delhi
In 2005, Learning Matters Foundation was born out of her expertise & commitment to support children with compassion and care. Our very first programme - Student Success (now known as Thrive) - focused on after-school academic intervention and support for school-age children.
It marked the beginning of our journey to help every child experience confidence, joy, and meaningful progress in learning.
2007
Learning Matters Begins an Early Years Programme
In 2007, Learning Matters introduces the Early Years Programme . The vision with this programme was to serve young children through a developmentally appropriate, play-based approach.
This was the beginning of a beautiful, long journey…
2020
A New Chapter with Max Learning Ventures
In 2020, Learning Matters partnered with the Max Group
to build a shared vision for education - one that centres
the emotional and developmental well-being of both
children and their families.
As Tara Singh Vachani, Vice-Chairperson of Max India and
Board of Directors, Learning Matters, shared:
“We offer an engaging, enriching and wholesome environment to
unwind, learn, and foster friendships. These needs, though might
seem relatively novel, are integral for the wellbeing of children
and parents, and we want to be proactive in meeting them.”
This partnership marked a renewed commitment to building learning spaces that are intentional, nurturing, and grounded in the belief that joy, and connection are essential to how children grow.
2022
Max Towers, Noida
In March 2022, post COVID, we opened the doors to our first school at Max Towers, Noida - a space designed to reflect everything we stand for: child-led exploration, meaningful relationships, and learning through play.
2022
Green Park, Delhi
Six months later, in September 2022, we brought our vision to Green Park - a warm, welcoming space nestled in a vibrant community. With children’s voices at the centre, this school quickly became a hub of curiosity, creativity, and connection.
2024
Vasant Vihar, Delhi
In November 2024, we opened another Early Years School in Vasant Vihar. Thoughtfully designed and deeply rooted in our philosophy, it expands our ability to nurture childhoods with care, intention, and joy.
