Our mission
To empower kids with the skills, confidence, and creativity to become the innovators and leaders of tomorrow.
Our vision
A world where every child wants to explore their potential, through a love of learning and a passion for technology.
Our values
Safe experimentation, creativity, inclusivity, teamwork & the ability to fall down and get up again.
we want to give kids a safe, inspiring space to explore AI, technology, and entrepreneurship, while building the skills that will matter most in their future.
Our Story
Hi, I’m Charlie 👋
I started The Startup Playground because I believe our education system is broken.
I’ve spent over 15 years working in entrepreneurship and innovation, and the last 8 years in education and ed-tech. Along the way, I built an award-winning Early Years app and ran hundreds of workshops and camps where I saw firsthand how much kids light up when they get to create, experiment, and problem-solve.
As a mum, I care deeply about how we raise the next generation. For me, it’s not just about teaching skills — it’s about helping kids grow into confident, curious, and resilient humans who can thrive in an AI-first world.
The Startup Playground is my way of giving them that safe space. A place where they can explore technology and entrepreneurship through play, not pressure. Where failure isn’t scary, but part of the process. And just as importantly, where we use #TechForGood — helping kids build a healthy relationship with technology while also developing emotional intelligence, teamwork, and self-belief.
For me, it’s not just about preparing kids for the future. It’s about giving them the tools and the confidence to create it.
“Entrepreneurship education equips children with the skills, mindset, and confidence to turn ideas into action, and helps them understand that they can shape their own future.”
— OECD Report, 2019
