Staff Spotlight – Meet Manya

Manya joined MMC at the start of this year and has quickly become an important part of our school community. Attracted to MMC because of the supportive environment and the Montessori focus on the whole child, she is enjoying building relationships with students and helping them develop confidence in themselves. When she isn’t at MMC, Manya enjoys yoga and recharging her batteries with walks, playing sport and movies. We spent five minutes chatting with Manya….

Full Name: Manya Sikka

Position: Student Counsellor / Learning Assistant (Cycle 4)

How long have you been at MMC? Since January 2026

Where were you beforehand? 

I worked at a primary school last year, and before that I was completing my Master of Counselling.

What do you love about working at MMC?

• The strong sense of community and how genuinely supportive everyone is.
• The focus on the whole child and not just academics but emotional wellbeing, too.
• The relationships we get to build with students over time.

What inspires you as a Montessori educator/team member?

• The emphasis on independence and helping students develop confidence in themselves.
• The respect given to each child’s individual pace and learning style.
• Being part of a team that values empathy, patience and meaningful connection.

What is your most memorable teaching moment (or moment working in a school)?

Supporting a student who initially struggled to open up, and slowly seeing them feel safe enough to share and engage. Those small moments of trust are always the most meaningful.

What’s your most memorable moment as a school student?

Being involved in sports and representing my school – it taught me discipline, resilience and teamwork, which still shape who I am today

What are some interesting things about you we may not know?

1. I love doing Yoga.
2. I am a national level athlete and football player.
3. My favourite dessert is mango sticky rice.
4. I have 19 tattoos.
5. I moved to Australia four years ago and do not plan on leaving.

What does your weekend look like?   

• A mix of yoga, catching up with friends, and recharging.
• I also enjoy quiet time, whether that’s going for a walk or just unwinding with a movie.

What is your favourite Maria Montessori quote?       

“Free the child’s potential, and you will transform him into the world.”

I love this quote because it reflects the belief that when children are supported, understood and given the right environment, they naturally grow into their best selves.