Busy Bees: A Major Expansion with the Acquisition of Learn and Play Montessori in California

Busy Bees Expands into California

Following its commitment to exceptional early years education, Busy Bees North America (BBNA) has successfully acquired Learn and Play Montessori School. This strategic move adds 15 new schools located in the San Francisco Bay Area to Busy Bees’ expanding portfolio. The acquisition not only marks Busy Bees' significant entry into California but also supports its dedication to providing high-quality care and education to families across the region.

Mary Ann Curran, the Chief Executive Officer of Busy Bees North America, expressed pride in this acquisition, stating, "We could not be prouder to welcome Learn and Play Montessori School to the Busy Bees family. This meaningful acquisition expands our ability to deliver high-quality care to families in California." Curran emphasized the positive impact this partnership will have on accessibility and the quality of child care in the state.

Founded in 2008 by Harpreet and Kiran Grewal, Learn and Play Montessori School aims to inspire children towards becoming self-confident and motivated individuals. Known for its unique approach to education, the school seamlessly blends Montessori methods with a focus on creativity, individual potential, and comprehensive child development. Kiran Grewal highlighted the importance of growth while maintaining high standards of care, stating, "Becoming part of the Busy Bees family will enable Learn and Play to continue to grow across California while preserving the high standards of care and exceptional programs."

With the acquisition, Busy Bees North America now oversees 225 centers across both the United States and Canada, with 139 operating in the U.S. and 86 in Canada. Additionally, this expansion will bring nearly 300 new employees and serve over 1,700 families, reinforcing Busy Bees' position as a leading child care provider on the continent.

The newly integrated Learn and Play schools will complement Busy Bees’ existing programs under the BrightPath Early Learning and Child Care brand, reinforcing their mission to offer an enriched early childhood education experience.

Busy Bees, with a global footprint exceeding 1,000 centers and providing care for over 90,000 children across multiple countries, has positioned itself as a key player in the early education market. Majority-owned by the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan, Busy Bees has also attracted strategic stakeholders such as Singapore-based Temasek, illustrating its robust financial standing and investment appeal.

As Busy Bees North America embarks on this new venture in California, it continues to stay true to its overarching mission: to provide exceptional care and innovative curriculum that ignites curiosity in children, setting the foundation for a lifelong journey of learning. For more detailed information about their programs and expanding network, please visit Busy Bees North America.