Happy Faces Early Learning Centre - Panania

Early May 2025, I have formally reported my child’s disclosure of being physically hit after a wetting incident while in care under the current management (my child attended this centre from 6 months to 2.5 years old). Complaints have been lodged with the Department of Education, which is investigating, and the NSW Police. When I raised these concerns with the centre’s new owner, my report was dismissed, and I received no follow-up. To my knowledge, the staff named remain employed at the centre. Since then, I learned another child has disclosed similar experience to their parent. During my daughter’s 8 last months at the centre, she showed increasing distress during drop-off, including daily meltdowns and anxiety. Since moving to a new centre, she has shown significant emotional improvement, and no more meltdowns. Previously, I posted a review about issues with unchanged nappies and empty water bottles. The owner asked me to remove the review to “give them another chance,” which I did in good faith. A former educator also reported witnessing rough handling and raised voices. She told me that after raising concerns with the current owner, she experienced increased scrutiny and believes her termination was linked to these reports. This raises concerns about possible retaliation against staff who report problems. I share this based on my experience and information provided to me. I do not make legal claims or accusations, and I understand investigations are ongoing with due process for all parties. I encourage parents to stay alert to their child’s wellbeing and speak up if concerned. I hope the centre prioritises safety and dignity for every child in its care. 11 August 20205 - I very recently communicated with the Department of Education investigator and can confirm that their investigation is still ongoing. The Police suspended theirs due to the absence of physical evidence and adult witness - the case is not closed and can be reopened anytime. The below answer from the centre owner is untruthful. 5 Sept 25 - the Department of Education closed the case due to the absence of physical evidence and adult witness. A formal warning has been issued to the Director of the Centre (whom my daughter disclosed hit her) as many people expressed their concerns about how she yells on children and staff.