Would not recommend. I'm writing the review I wish existed when I was choosing child care in Moolooah!
We had our 3 year old and 1 year old here for 12 months, but we had constant problems. We've previously been with Goodstart and have had really positive experiences so we were unpleasantly surprised by this daycare. Main issues:
Extremely poor communication:
- they love emails but try and actually have a conversation with a carer and you get zero engagement. I had no idea most of the time who would be caring for my kids that day, and everytime we would ask a simple 'how was (child's name) day today?' it was usually met with 'oh I don't know, I'm not looking after them today and (carers name) has gone home.' We eventually stopped asking. Carers don't greet me or (more concerning) my kids when we arrive in the morning. They seem to have a 'don't ask me' attitude and actively avoid eye contact and conversation. All in all, don't expect an interactive relationship with the staff.
- Leadership and management was also very poor. Every time I did have a concern or ask for feedback the issue got some attention for a couple of days but there was never any real carry over. I honestly didn't think this team could cope managing a child with even simple specialised needs. I got the message loud and clear that my kids were a paycheck to them, not an actual little person needing care and consideration.
Lack of carer compassion:
- I became increasingly more uncomfortable with what I saw. We usually arrive early and there is one very young child who is inconsolable at this time. I've watched carers ignore this little child as he followed them around begging for comfort. If his mother could see this scene everyday I'm sure she would be horrified.
Health and hygiene:
My 1 year old was sick the entire time they attended. Constant runny nose, cough, impetigo, I put it down to the fact they let all kids in attendance from all rooms intermingle at the end of the day so you can be sure your child is in contact directly or indirectly with the germs of at least 80 kids. (They are approved for 88 children daily).
Internal politics:
Frankly I got the impression no employee was happy to be there. Atmosphere was always tense. I did notice the staff turn over is very high. We must have had at least 4 team leader changes in 12 months.
Positives:
Their food was good - from what I saw, morning tea was very healthy and fun. Josh the chef was the only one who ever greeted us so I was sadder to see him go then any of the educators.
Centre has great outer aesthetic. But sadly that's all it was- just aesthetic, no substance.
It's also worth noting they don't even meet the minimum nqs rating i.e they are still 'working toward national quality standard' despite having been open for a few years now.
Final straw was when I caught some very nasty bullying behaviour from centre leadership. Got the instant ick and pulled my kids out.
Very pleased my eldest is ready for kindy somewhere else now and my youngest is much happier elsewhere - it's like night and day.
If you are still using this centre and have concerns, I encourage you to listen to your gut and remember if your child isn't happy or you have doubts, it's most likely an issue with this centre, not you or your child. There are lots of great centres in the area and neighbouring towns, don't waste your time here! Good luck and steer clear.