I've now rewritten my review, because the centre tried to take it down and get it breached.<br>So let's try this again.<br>When we first started at this centre, our experience was reasonably positive. It was a new centre, so we understood there would be some teething issues. Unfortunately, over time, our experience changed significantly, particularly following the departure of several staff members we had built relationships with.<br>The most significant concern for us was an incident involving my daughter and an educator during her first week under new management. I initially felt the incident was handled reasonably on the day. However, I was very disappointed with the lack of communication and follow-up afterwards.<br>I wasn't kept informed about the reporting process, wasn't provided with the relevant case/reference number, and wasn't contacted to check on how my daughter or I were doing following the incident. When I subsequently contacted the relevant department myself, I discovered the matter had already been closed. I was disappointed that I hadn't been kept informed or given the opportunity to provide further information during that process.<br>Following this, I lost confidence in the centre and ultimately decided it was no longer the right environment for my daughter.<br>Staff turnover was another major concern. There were frequently new faces, including temporary staff, and on some days I didn't recognise any of the educators working in the room. As a parent, I found this incredibly unsettling. Building trust with the people caring for your child is extremely important, and the constant changes made that difficult.<br>There were also several occasions when my daughter came home with bruises, a black toe, marks or other injuries that I wasn't aware of occurring. On one occasion, she had significant red marks across a large area of her body. I contacted the centre on multiple occasions asking whether anyone had seen what happened, particularly when I hadn't received an incident report. I was disappointed by the lack of response and explanation to my concerns.<br>I also had concerns about the level of engagement I observed between some educators and the children. At times, I felt there was limited active interaction and play. There was also frequent loud yelling from one educator, which I found uncomfortable and unprofessional. I later became aware that other members of the local community had also raised concerns about loud yelling, although I can only speak to what I personally observed.<br>I was also concerned about the amount of time children appeared to spend outside during colder weather without what I considered adequate warm clothing, and there were occasions when my daughter came home with numerous mosquito bites.<br>Ultimately, choosing childcare requires an enormous amount of trust. As a parent, I need to feel confident that my child is safe, cared for, listened to and genuinely known by the people looking after her. Unfortunately, our experience at this centre left me without that confidence.<br>This review is based on my personal experience and observations as a parent. I would strongly encourage other parents to do their own research, ask questions about staff turnover and temporary educators, and make sure they are comfortable with the level of communication and care before enrolling their child.

We had a wonderful experience at this centre under the previous management, but unfortunately everything changed once the new management took over.<br>Communication with families became extremely poor, and there was a noticeable lack of transparency about what was happening within the centre. Over a short period of time, many of the experienced educators who had built genuine, trusting relationships with the children—including my child—were gone. It felt like the people who made the centre special were systematically pushed out. The educators who replaced them lacked the experience and professionalism we had come to expect. There were several occasions where I questioned whether my child was receiving the level of care and attention they deserved, which is something no parent should have to worry about. It's incredibly disappointing to see a centre that was once so warm, nurturing, and well-run decline so dramatically. I can no longer recommend it to other families and would encourage parents to do their own research before enrolling their children.

For over 12 months, our experience at the centre was mostly positive thanks to a few incredible educators. They were the only reason we stayed as long as we did. But once new management took over, everything changed — and not in a way any family should have to tolerate.<br><br>The management transition was handled with zero professionalism. Communication fell apart, concerns were brushed aside, and the level of disorganisation was honestly shocking. They repeatedly messed up our payments for weeks in a row — overcharging us, skipping weeks entirely, then suddenly withdrawing large amounts with no warning. We emailed multiple times, and those emails were ignored. When we finally did get a response, we were assured the issue was fixed… only to be overcharged again. It was a pattern of carelessness that directly affected our family’s finances, and they acted like it was no big deal.<br><br>On top of that, several interactions with new management made me deeply uncomfortable. One staff member commented that I had “the patience of a saint” while I supported my child walking up the stairs. When I explained that fostering independence is important to me, she told me that if it were her child, she would have dragged them up the stairs because she “doesn’t have time for that.” Hearing someone in a leadership role casually talk about dragging a child was alarming and completely inappropriate.<br><br>Another day, the same staff member had her feet up on the entry counter — the first thing families see when they walk in. When I asked how her day was going, she replied, “Well I’m still here aren’t I,” without even bothering to sit up. It was unprofessional, dismissive, and showed a complete lack of respect for families and the educators she’s supposed to be leading.<br><br>These weren’t isolated moments. They were clear signs of a management team that is disorganised, unprofessional, and not equipped to run a centre where families need to feel safe and supported. Once the educators I trusted began leaving, I realised I could no longer rely on management to uphold the standards that made the centre feel safe in the first place.<br><br>We left because I refuse to send my child somewhere run by people I don’t trust — and based on our experiences with the new leadership, trust is the last thing they inspire.

We have had such a wonderful experience with Happy Hearts. After my oldest became really resistant to going to care, we decided to make the change, and it has made such a difference. He now runs in happily every day, which speaks volumes. All of the staff are so friendly and welcoming, always taking the time to say hello. Within just a few days, everyone knew his name, which made him feel so comfortable and supported. Sharon and Megan have been absolutely amazing, and he is always talking about them at home, which really shows the strong connections they’ve built with him. It’s been such a positive change for our family, and I’m so grateful for the care and environment they provide. Highly recommend!

Very rude and unprofessional staff.

We never intended for our daughter to go into childcare however circumstances changed and I was set on finding the right fit for us. I visited 8 different centres within the area and Happy Hearts Armstrong street left a lasting impression. I recieved a tour from Allie the centre manager and her down to earth manner and appreciation for her staff and centre resonated with me. It didnt feel scripted like other places but from a place of honesty and pride of her workplace. I felt that her leadership would transend to her staff and that my daughter would be well looked after, nutured and thrive. And that she has - she loves going to Happy Hearts to see her little friends and the educators that care for her. I love that other educators from different areas and even the cook knew her by name in the early months when she first started. We always feel so welcomed when we arrive and often she is greeted by her adoring friends. It is also heartwarming when you see your daughter run to the educators for hugs and she comes home with plats in her hair. They also strive to build a community often hosting events for families to mingle. I couldnt recommend Happy Hearts enough!

I can't express enough how thrilled I am with my daughter's experience at Happy Hearts Armstrong. From the moment we joined, it has felt like a second home for her. The welcoming atmosphere is evident every time I walk through the doors; the staff greets us with warmth, and I can see the genuine care they have for all the children. Over the months, I have witnessed incredible growth in my daughter. It’s heartwarming to see her excited every morning. A special mention goes to her educators, Shanee and Hayley. They are absolutely wonderful with her! Their patience and nurturing approach create an environment where she feels safe to explore and learn. Additionally, the support I receive from the management team has been outstanding. They are always available to address any questions or concerns, making us feel valued as parents. Their commitment to fostering a nurturing environment is clear and greatly appreciated. Thank you, Happy Hearts Armstrong, for making this such a positive experience for my family. I can't recommend you highly enough!

Happy Hearts Childcare Centre has been an absolute blessing for our family. The management team is incredibly kind, approachable, and always easy to speak with, making us feel welcome and supported. Their educators are truly amazing—our two children have thrived here over the past six months. The centre is wonderfully inclusive, embracing every child’s needs and creating a warm, respectful environment where everyone belongs. After persisting at our former daycare for too long, moving to Happy Hearts on Armstrong Street has been the best decision we’ve made. We couldn’t be happier with the care, warmth, and dedication the team shows every day. Thank you for all that you do!