genU sells childcare business

FAMILIES enrolled at a Lara childcare centre have been assured their places are secure following genU’s decision to sell it to a statewide provider.

Last week, genU announced it had sold Pipsqueaks Early Learning Centre in Manzeene Avenue to Jenny’s Early Learning Centre, and the name of the centre would officially change on November 20.

In a statement, genU said it had informed Pipsqueaks staff and families “as soon as possible once a suitably qualified and respected provider was secured in Jenny’s”.

“The sale follows a genU Executive and Board decision to focus on the strategic national growth of the non-for-profit’s core business in disability, ageing, training, and employment services.

“Expansion of its single childcare service was not part of this growth strategy.”

genU stated a review found Pipsqueaks’ future “best sits within a specialist childcare organisation rather than as a standalone childcare service within genU”.

Most existing staff have been invited to stay on with Jenny’s, genU stated, but there would be changes to the management team, including the existing centre director as well as the administration and wellbeing officer roles.

“Current families have been assured their place at the centre is secure, and the waiting list for openings will be carried over to Jenny’s.”

All existing services and programs will continue.

Chief executive officer of genU Clare Amies said the decision to sell Pipsqueaks – the organisation’s only childcare service – after three-and-a half years in operation was a strategic business decision unrelated to the excellence and dedication of Pipsqueaks’ staff.

“Since its opening in 2020, Pipsqueaks has grown to become an early learning centre with strong enrolments and a reputation for high quality care, and much of this is due to the commitment and care of staff.

“Our expertise and knowledge lie in our core business of disability, ageing, training, and employment services.

“We are thrilled to have found a buyer with the specialist early learning knowledge and experience to look after the children, families and staff, and lead the centre into a long and bright future.”

Starting in Bendigo in 2008, Jenny’s has expanded to seven centres across regional Victoria.

Jenny’s managing director Darren Reid said his team was looking forward to getting to know staff and families throughout the transition period.

“We will be running a series of drop-in information sessions to make sure we can meet people and answer any questions they might have.”

“Jenny’s is also deeply committed to being part of the local communities we work in and will be keeping, strengthening and expanding the centre’s connections within the Lara community.”