“If we can make it easier for educators to focus on children’s safety and learning, and less on the paperwork, then it will be the children who benefit most,” Seymour said.
The Early Childhood Council (ECC) welcomed the decision to grant a stay of cancellation of licence so Country Kindy could continue operating while its appeal progressed and alleged issues were resolved.
“Country Kindy achieved this because they have such a supportive parent community, dedicated staff and happy and safe children who are engaged in their learning. Today’s decision avoids a more costly legal route, as Country Kindy, with the ECC’s support, was prepared to defend itself,” council chief executive Simon Laube said.
“Closure was narrowly avoided - this case should serve as a warning to all ECE providers that this could happen to them. I’m proud that ECC was able to intervene, with our members standing in solidarity.”
Laube said the council hoped regulations and “disproportionate sanctions” would be addressed through the sector review.