Multiple early learning centres in Queensland are set to close after Edge Early Learning failed to secure takeover offers for 11 operations following the company’s plunge into administration two months ago.
But while those centres will close, the company did manage to secure offers for 53 others across Queensland and South Australia.
“The administrators have advised families and staff impacted by the closures and, where possible, have offered alternative placements and employment at nearby Edge centres,” administrators KordaMentha said on Monday.
Goodstart Early Learning will take over 31 centres across Queensland and South Australia, with 22 others split across six more operators.
Of the Queensland centres, Goodstart will take at Aroona, Coomera, Eagleby, Elanora, Ferny Grove, Flagstone, Gordonvale, Grange, Kanimbla, Karana Downs, Laidley, Maryborough, Peregian Springs, Pimpama Village, Silkstone, and Tarragindi.
Montessori Academy will take over the Bilinga, Crestmead, North Harbour, North Pimpama, Nundah, and Pimpama centres.
Wings Early Learning will take over the Wynnum centre.
Other operators will take over the Annerley, Beaudesert, Bellbird Park, Edmonton, Marsden, Peregian Breeze, Strathpine – Bells Pocket Road, Tinana, Waterford West, West End – Montague Road, and Zillmere centres.
The Cannon Hill, Kelvin Grove, Milton, Morayfield East, South Brisbane, Strathpine – Railway Avenue, and West End – Jane St centres will close.
“We received significant interest in the Edge business following our appointment and are pleased to have secured … childcare operators to continue the provision of education at 53 centres,” administrator David Johnstone said.
“We are grateful for the support received from the Edge team, families and carers, regulators and landlords throughout the process. However, we acknowledge the impact that the closures of the 11 centres will have on staff, as well as families and carers, who now need to make alternate childcare arrangements.
“The Edge team will assist families and staff where they can to find alternate care and employment close to their current centre.”
Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.