Whyalla Child Care Centre rebrands as Whyalla Early Learning Centre
Whyalla City Council’s childcare service has a new identity, officially rebranding from the Whyalla Child Care Centre to the Whyalla Early Learning Centre.
The service has undergone a significant transformation with children and educators operating from the building and signage set to be installed in the coming weeks. The name change is part of a broader upgrade to the centre, including an expanded building footprint*, a renewed focus on modern early childhood education practices and allowing more local children to access quality early learning each day.
Centre Coordinator Christine Gourlay said the new name better reflects the important role the service plays in children’s development, “We’re so much more than a childcare facility, we’re a place of early learning, where children are supported to grow, discover and prepare for school,” Ms Gourlay said. “The name captures the breadth of what we do, and it recognises the expertise and dedication of our educators.”
Mayor Phill Stone said the change was a positive step forward, “The new name highlights the centre’s focus on education and development, while the additional capacity will help meet demand in our growing community,” Mayor Stone said.
This is a mock up image of what the new sign will look like, it is currently not displayed.
‘Flying Start for Kids’ Coming in 2026
From 2026, families across South Australia will gain access to a new teacher-led preschool program for three-year-olds, supported by the Government of South Australia. The Flying Start for Kids program is designed to help every child build confidence, curiosity, and the skills they need to thrive in learning and in life.
A community information session will be held at the Whyalla Early Learning Centre on Thursday 21 August to share details about the program and the upgraded facilities.
For more information and how to attend, please contact the Whyalla Early Learning Centre.
*The expanded footprint was made possible thanks to $448,250 from the Australian Government Department for Education through the Community Child Care Fund Program under the Open Competitive Round 3 grant opportunity.