FiRST Early Learning Endeavour Hills

"My friend and I enrolled our kids at this centre after feeling really optimistic from the centre tour with the Director. However, we’ve since taken both our kids out of their care in less than three weeks. The first evening I picked my son up, none of the educators acknowledged my existence. They sat together in a group chatting as the kids were unsupervised in the playground. I searched for my son and awkwardly left. I had no idea how his first was and emailed the Director that night. The most heartbreaking moment was when I found my son outside at 5pm in 9 degree weather without a jacket or a beanie. My son’s hands and ears were icy cold. None of the kids were dressed appropriately. The only two people who had jackets on were the educators. Another evening I went in to pick up my son to find him sitting on the floor with the rest of the 2 year olds looking up at a small iPad. There was no singing or learning - they were just little zombies on the floor. You’re promised daily updates on the Storypark app but we only got three during the 16 days my son attended. The Director is rarely at the centre as she’s doing damage control at the other branches. She’s readily available to give you this fabulous tour of false promises then disappears once you’re enrolled. I saw her once in three weeks. She was not present at my son’s orientation or his first day. Every concern and incident was raised and discussed in great length via email and phone. The only reason why we were invited to speak to the Operations Manager was because we cancelled my son’s enrolment and it was part of their policy. I sent a final email to the Director saying we appreciated her escalating the matter but we would not be returning. I’m sharing my experience to caution other parents on what to look out for. I relied on the glowing 5 star reviews that were all written a year ago when I should have dug deeper and read about the similar experiences parents had at the other branches. I’m not being petty over some bad service at a restaurant. I’m talking about the health and well-being of my child. The trauma and heartache I’ve just gone through is something I wouldn’t wish upon anyone. Trusting another centre has been such a challenging process but I’m grateful I’ve now found a place that goes above and beyond for the families that rely so heavily on them."

"The team at Endeavour Hills First Early Learning are amazing. The staff are caring, compassionate, fun and they promote inclusivity and friendliness. My daughter Hazel has been attending since she was six months old (now kinder) and I am very trusting of the staff whom care for her. They treat her like family and that means the world to us. Thank you - we would highly recommend the centre to others."

"First early learning is the best childcare you’d find in Endeavour hills. Moved to the area and was looking for care for my 3.5 & 1.5 year olds and after touring all the childcare centres in the area we were happy to find this gem. You’ll find the most patient and kind educators at this centre starting from the amazing centre director Lorinda. Healthy and balanced meals are provided to the kids which are made in-house. The centre has a very cosy & homely vibe and cleanliness of the centre is 10/10. We are so happy to be part of the First family x"

"I’ve been sending my children here for nearly 9 years now, when I first started I struggled to leave my child there and the staff made me feel safe, you get a sense of love in the building. I’ve seen so many changes over the years , constantly improving. Every time someone new works there , you automatically knew they selected the most caring supportive staff. I could go on about each staff but I don’t have enough space! So I’ll mention this year. Lorinda … I’ve know Lorinda since she first started and it was around the same time as my eldest. I’ve watched her move her way up and constantly challenging herself to pour her heart and soul into the centre. I can’t even call it a centre, it’s a more than a business to them. This is their home and children. It always felt like I was visiting my family knowing my children are safe. I honestly can’t say I have a favourite staff because they all exceed my expectations. I’m not leaving my child with just a childcare educator I’m leaving them with people who I see has part of my family. Thank you to each and every staff member past and present for 9 plus years of support!"

"We chose First Early Learning at Endeavour Hills after touring 6 other childcare facilities. We knew we were in the right place the moment we stepped in. All the carers are so kind and very accommodating to the children's needs. Our son has been enjoying his time and has been making great progress in his development due to the support and environment hes in. Lorinda and the superstars in the Acacia room are just wonderful."