Edge Early Learning maintains growth momentum with acquisition of new sites in ACT

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) provider Edge Early Learning (EEL) has confirmed another round of acquisitions as it continues to build on the network growth momentum that has seen the Group almost double in size over the course of the first half of 2022.

 

This latest round of acquisitions sees EEL purchasing three long day care centres in Canberra, marking their first entry into the Australian Capital Territory. EEL now has 50 sites spread across Queensland, South Australia and the ACT with a significant greenfield pipeline also embedded within the business. 

 

Chief Executive Officer Annie Bryce believes EEL’s recognised brand of early learning services will enhance the broader current ECEC offering, while meeting the growing demand for access to quality child care within South Australia and the ACT.

 

“We have built a reputable educational practice in the early learning space in Queensland and have been looking to take EEL to more locations that are seeking quality childcare and education,” she said.

 

“The acquisitions of the South Australian (which settled earlier in the year, see here) and ACT centres are aligned with our growth plans and also provided an opportunity to establish ourselves immediately as a leader in the market.”

 

The new Canberra centres, Ducklings Charnwood, Little Penguins Higgins, and Little Penguins Ngunnawal will be rebranded as EEL moves to integrate them into the Group. 

 

HEAL Partners, an Australian based investment fund focused on the health and education sectors has been instrumental in the growth of the group via the provision of significant funding support. 

 

“We welcome the opportunity to further our investment in the Australian childcare market and are excited about the opportunity to continue our growth in QLD, SA and ACT both through development of new centres and by selected acquisitions,” EEL Chairman and HEAL Founder Mark Evans said.

 

Consistent with its strategy EEL continues to actively seek opportunities within all three states, QLD, SA and ACT, with greenfields a particular focus going forward. 

 

“In the coming months, there are six new purpose-built sites planned for opening within Queensland at Karana Downs, Crestmead, Silkstone, Grange, Flagstone, Morayfield and Pimpama,” Ms Bryce added.

 

To learn more about Edge Early Learning please visit the website, here.