About US
40+ Years of Academic Excellenceour history
At The Play Pen (TPP), we have for over 40 years consistently provided a structured and nurturing environment where children can grow and acquire knowledge, skills and a passion for excellence. The Play Pen’s (TPP) holistic and child-centred approach to education is based on over four decades of experience of its founder Mrs. Florence Ajumogobia as a School Teacher, School Principal and from her active involvement with training teachers.
Established in 1981 at Port Harcourt in Rivers State of Nigeria as a private, wholly Nigerian-owned and managed, co-educational Child Development Centre, The Play Pen began by catering to the educational needs of the pre-school child, which constituted an emerging challenge for young couples, as the population of working mothers grew.
Mrs. Florence Ajumogobia had been a professional teacher with wide and varied experience at all levels of education from pre-school teaching to teacher training. She was educated at what is now Manchester University and had taught in several schools including the famous Queen’s College, Lagos.
The Play Pen has contributed to the growth of over 3,000 pupils that have passed through the centre since its inception and who have gone on to excel in their various callings in virtually all walks of life in both the public and private sectors of the Nigerian economy. Some are continuing their education at home and abroad.
TPP’s holistic approach to education ensures that TPP parents and guardians are expected to participate and provide support to the centre through their mandatory membership of a body known as the “Friends of The Play Pen” – an innovative association designed by the founder and comprising the teachers and parents of the school.
OUR VISION
To achieve the highest international standards in addressing the early developmental needs of pre-school and primary school-aged children in Nigeria.
OUR MISSION
- We are a team of professionals committed to providing international quality care and education for children aged 6 months to 11 years. We seek to prepare the “whole person” for the 21st century world
- We measure our success by the achievement of leadership in development – oriented childcare and education, sustainable growth mainly from internally generated resources and an environment of academic excellence and personal growth.
- We achieve this through the total dedication of The Play Pen staff and resources committed to continuous improvement in all that we do.

Our Vision
Teaching the Professionals of tomorrow
Our creche is a haven for the tiniest members of our community. With nurturing caregivers and a carefully designed space, we prioritize safety, comfort, and early developmental needs. From cozy nap areas to sensory exploration corners, every detail is crafted to provide a gentle and enriching environment for infants to thrive.
Toddlers are inquisitive explorers, and our facility is tailored to match their boundless curiosity. Our toddler area is filled with age-appropriate toys, interactive play stations, and supervised exploration zones. Our dedicated staff ensures that toddlers are engaged in stimulating activities that encourage their burgeoning independence and social skills, all within a safe and supportive environment.
For our primary-aged children, we offer a dynamic learning environment that balances structured education with creative exploration. Our classrooms are equipped with interactive learning materials, technology resources, and dedicated educators who foster a love for learning. We prioritize individualized attention and holistic development, preparing children for academic success while nurturing their unique talents and interests.
Testimonials
What Parents are Saying
”I have my son at the crèche at The Play Pen School. We started at 3 months and so far, it’s been a great and positive experience. The staff are professional and they have a very nurturing and caring environment. I will gladly recommend The Play Pen for any parent looking to put their child in a crèche.”
Mrs Nwabude
”Their learning is different. They teach the children learning by observation so somehow, the children are always in a learning mode in and out of the classroom. They make mathematics and multiplication so easy, even a basic 3 child can do multiplication by heart up to 13x. So, it’s an investment worth going into. Try The Play Pen School and you won’t regret it.”
Mrs. Dodo
”The Play Pen metaphorically for me is a wonderland for academics. Many things excite me about the school, including the environment, curriculum, quality of teachers, teaching method, etc. It’s a place where I drop my child and I am rest assured that he is safe in a conducive learning environment.
Barr. Echezona