Heartbroken parents in Chatswood, Sydney, are fighting to save the KU Community Preschool, a beloved institution that has provided quality early childhood education for 44 years. The Willoughby City Council has made the decision to close this not-for-profit centre, which charges parents as little as $13 per day, in favour of a private early learning centre.
Parents have expressed their deep distress over the impending closure, set for December, stressing that the preschool is more than just a place for learning; it is a nurturing environment where children feel safe and inspired. Mum Billy highlighted its trusted reputation and skilled educators, while Fiona explained that this closure disrupts their plans for affordable care, forcing them to reconsider employment options or seek more expensive childcare solutions.
Despite the preschool operating at full capacity with a waiting list, the council’s decision came as a shock to many families. They rely on community-run preschools, which are subsidised by the state, unlike long daycare centres that receive Commonwealth funding. The Start Strong program in NSW provides access to 600 hours of quality preschool education, making it financially viable for parents.
KU’s CEO, Christine Legg, has spent the past two years attempting to negotiate with the council to find a solution that would keep the preschool open. She argues that the Council’s decision prioritises profit over community needs, as parents brace for a transition to a new operator, Little Lion Early Learning, which will take over next year and continue to offer the state’s childcare fee relief options.
In its defence, the Willoughby City Council stated it has a responsibility to manage its property assets while balancing community needs with financial obligations. They indicated that the closure and subsequent opening of a private operator were decisions made after careful consideration of various offers, resulting in a choice that aims to ensure the ongoing delivery of services while reducing financial burdens on residents.
The community’s outcry reflects not only the emotional investment parents have in the preschool but also their concerns over the quality and affordability of early education in the area. With the doors set to close in just a few months, many families are uncertain about their children’s future education and care.