Mission Australia Early Learning opens it's doors in Shell Cove

Mission Australia threw open it doors to local families at its Shell Cove Early Learning Service on Sunday to celebrate the launch of the new centre.

Families enjoyed a BBQ and children’s entertainment including storytelling, face-painting and pony rides.

New enrolments taken on the day have gone into the draw for a free skydive by Sky Dive on the Beach (Wollongong) in October.

Mission Australia’s spokesperson, Ben Williams, said Mission Australia had a long and successful history caring for children and providing not-for-profit early learning.

“We plan on making a significant contribution to early learning in the Wollongong and Shellharbour areas having taken on the former ABC Learning centre in Shell Cove,” said Ben.

“Currently we assist hundreds of children and their families through early childhood support services. We’ll be drawing on all of that experience and knowledge at Shell Cove."

As a not-for-profit provider, Mission Australia's early learning services have a very different structure and approach to the previous owner, ABC Learning, noted Mr Williams.

“Because we’re a not-for-profit organisation, any surpluses generated from Mission Australia’s centres are returned straight back into the services to deliver better outcomes for children.

“The bottom line for us is we’re here to provide high quality early learning and care and to make a long-term difference. We run our services for the benefit of children, families and the community – not shareholders.

“The local Shell Cove community has really embraced the notion of a not-for-profit like Mission Australia taking over the management of this centre and we’re looking to repay their faith by providing a fantastic service to support children and families,” said Ben.

Tiger Putt Putt, Country Kitchen Café, Photo House Kiama, Play Days, Tangs Restaurant Shellharbour Village, Bakers Delight Wollongong, Play Maze and Donut King all made prize donations for the open day.

Advantage U Tennis Coaching also conducted tennis demonstrations for the children.

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More information for parents:

• Parents interested in enrolling their children in Mission Australia Early Learning at Shell Cove can contact the centre on 02 4297 6922, or visit the site webpage for more information - click here.
  
• To download the Parent's Handbook, click here.
• For more information please visit Mission Australia Early Learning Services online - click here.