To the Management Team

Story House Early Learning, Putney

79 Charles Street, Putney 2112

We are writing to formally raise concerns regarding the recent increase in fees at Story House Putney, which we believe to be excessive and unjustified given the current standard of service delivery. As long-term parents at the centre, we feel it is important to highlight several ongoing issues that not only affect the families but also raise broader concerns about the centre’s operations and planning.

Playground Closure and Misleading Communication

Families continued to pay full fees for nearly six months while the playground remained closed. Despite this disruption, we were not offered any reduction in fees, nor were we informed of an impending increase. Upon reopening, the playground did not meet the expectations that had been communicated, and many families feel misled. Given the extended period of closure and the resulting inconvenience, we believe some form of compensation is warranted.

Prolonged Absence of a Second-in-Charge (2IC)

Since the 2IC went on maternity leave, no replacement has been appointed. This critical leadership gap has impacted the day-to-day running of the centre. Previously, the centre benefitted from both a 2IC and an educational leader; now, it appears that responsibilities are being stretched among remaining staff.

Moreover, the current Service Manager has announced her maternity leave, and a replacement was only communicated the day before her departure. This last-minute update reflects poor planning and raises serious concerns about continuity of service and support for both families and staff.

It is evident that staff are overwhelmed, particularly during peak times such as morning drop-offs. This indicates inadequate staffing levels and a lack of support for educators, which ultimately affects the quality of care being provided.

. High Fees Without Commensurate Value

Story House Putney continues to charge the highest fees in the area for preschool-aged children):

- Greenwood Gladesville $167 (reducing fees this year)

- Kindikids $ 175

- Fitkidz $180

- Nurtured $ 175

- Putney Playgrounds $ 172

- Lilly Pad Top Ryde $150

However, the standard and consistency of service currently being delivered do not reflect this premium pricing. Families are being asked to pay more, despite receiving less.

CCTV Cameras

While parents understand the importance of addressing security concerns, the installation of CCTV cameras should not be charged to families. The installation of security measures, such as CCTV, falls within the centre’s obligations under the NSW Child Safe Standards, particularly Standard 8, which relates to creating physical environments that minimise harm. This cost should not be passed on to families but rather be absorbed as part of the centre’s compliance with its WHS and child protection responsibilities.

In light of recent incidents involving the Affinity Group in Melbourne, this should be a top priority for the centre. The associated costs should be absorbed by the organisation and not passed on to parents.

Finaly, there has been no continuation of the developmental plans. While there appeared to be an initial intention to support and track children’s development, there has since been no follow-up or review of feedback provided to parents. This lack of communication raises concerns about the ongoing focus on our children’s learning and progress.

Given the above, we respectfully request that Story House Putney:

• Reconsiders the recent fee increase in light of the current service delivery issues.
• Provides transparent communication about staffing and leadership plans.
• Addresses families’ concerns regarding the playground and potential compensation.
• Reviews staffing support to ensure educators are not overextended.

We trust that you will take these concerns seriously and respond accordingly. We are also happy to speak further or to connect with other parents who share these concerns, should that be helpful.

We respectfully request a formal response to these concerns. Should this not be addressed appropriately, parents may escalate the matter to the relevant department or regulatory body for further review

Sincerely,

Parents of Story House Putney