Ütopya Primary and Secondary School was founded by educator and researcher Leman Çetin, building upon the success of her International Small Hands Academy Preschools. As a mother herself, Leman was driven to establish both institutions as a direct result of her desire to ensure a quality education for her own children. 

When Leman realised that the high standard and value-driven education that she was seeking for her eldest son was not readily available, she made the decision to create it herself, first through establishing International Small Hands Academy Preschools starting in 1994, and then through founding Ütopya Primary and Secondary school in 2007. From Leman’s passion and dedication for providing high quality education, grounded in a deep understanding of the importance of healthy childhood development, along with her desire for all children to have the opportunity to experience a joyful, memorable childhood, both institutions share the same core focus, of offering meaningful learning opportunities for all children. 

The fundamental goal of both Ütopya Primary and Secondary School and International Small Hands Academy Preschools, has always been to create a place of genuine care, deep learning, and true community, as a foundation for the lifelong success of every child who passes through our doors. Over the years, Ütopya's education model has continually adapted to meet the changing needs of students, families and teachers, but the core goal remains strong and deep in our hearts and minds.

Particularly due to our thoughtful analysis and awareness of the significant impacts that families and children are facing today in our complex and ever changing world, we realise the importance and necessity of creating a strong and solid foundation for children, through true community experience, and thoughtful and effective interventions that can support them and safeguard against negative impacts. 

We are always acting and adapting, to ensure our approach is relevant, meaningful and effective to truly prepare every child in all the ways they need to succeed in our complex and rapidly changing world.