Little Shining Stars Early Learning Centre - Klemzig

An early learning centre in Adelaide's north-eastern suburbs, Little Shining Stars Early Learning Centre at Klemzig, is currently under investigation by South Australia's... An early learning centre in Adelaide's north-eastern suburbs, Little Shining Stars Early Learning Centre at Klemzig, is currently under investigation by South Australia's Education Standards Board (ESB) for taking and storing "inappropriate" images of children. These images were reportedly taken to document nappy rash and minor injuries. The investigation began in early May after a parent complained about "inappropriate discipline." During their inquiry, ESB officers discovered "photos taken of children in care to evidence nappy rash and minor scratches and grazes." While the ESB believes this was a "misguided arrangement or process to evidence injury or nappy rash" with no "malicious intent," they deemed it inappropriate. The ESB seized devices containing these images and referred the matter to the SA Police. However, police found no evidence to warrant criminal charges. As a result of the investigation, the ESB issued an emergency action notice directing Little Shining Stars to: * Notify the families of all children enrolled during the times the photos were taken. * Engage a counselling service for affected children and their families. * Reset all service devices and permanently delete the images. * Amend its policies and procedures to align with national regulations. Little Shining Stars has stated that all parents have been notified, and they have reviewed and amended their procedures, including implementing a Photograph Policy that prohibits taking photos of children's injuries and requires the deletion of all photos after three months. Additionally, emergency action notices were issued to four other Little Shining Stars centres (Pooraka, Virginia, Wayville, and Evanston) concerning the practice of taking and storing images of injuries. In a separate matter, the service provider also terminated the employment of three female workers following a parent's complaint that children were being tapped on the head during nap times. The ESB has indicated that the investigation is ongoing, and further regulatory action, including prosecution, may be taken. They have also emphasised their commitment to children's safety and encourage the public to report any concerns about early childhood education and care services. Read more