Pachamama wins state award for third year – a first for the KindiCare Excellence Awards

West Australian long day care service Pachamama, in Lesmurdie, has been announced as the WA state winner of the prestigious KindiCare Excellence Award for a third consecutive year.

Established in 2021, the KindiCare Excellence Awards recognise and celebrate early childhood education and care (ECEC) services across the country, with services which have a KindiCare rating of 9.0 or above being recognised. 

The KindiCare Rating provides a unique score for all Australian early learning services through combining data about a centre, feedback and reviews from parents and families and government assessment and ratings under the National Quality Framework into one indicator, with seven potential outcomes: 

Outstanding  

A score of between 9.5 to 10.0. All centres in this category are Exceeding the National Quality Standard. 

Very Good  

A score of between 8.5 – 9.0

Good  

A score of between 7.5 – 8.5

Fair  

A score of between 5.0 – 7.5

Poor  

A score of 5.0 or below

Not Rated  

Early learning services that have a KindiCare Rating of Not Rated (NR) are early learning services that have been operating for less than three years since their provisional approval AND have yet to formally undertake their Rating and Assessment. 

Taking home the trifecta

Pachamama is the first trifecta winner in the KindiCare Excellence Awards, recognised for its overall achievements in quality education, holistic care, and community engagement.

“When we started Pachamama, our vision was to create a service that embraced the uniqueness of every child while fostering a strong connection to nature, creativity, and diversity. This trifecta-first is a testament to the power of that vision and the extraordinary team that have brought it to life,” Kristen McPhail, one of the Founders of Pachamama, shared.

Rocky Beaton, Executive Centre Manager of Pachamama, echoed this sentiment with pride and gratitude.

“This award is a reflection of the incredible dedication of our team,” Ms Beaton said. “In just over a decade, we have established Pachamama as a trusted and innovative provider. Our staff longevity and loyalty reflects the positive culture and dedication we strive to create and the families we are committed to serve.”

“Our environments play a pivotal role in attracting quality educators to Pachamama. Steeped in nature, creativity, and diversity, our learning spaces are designed to inspire children, nurture their curiosity, and celebrate their individuality.”

Ms Beaton expressed her gratitude to KindiCare for establishing the Award platform saying “being the first state winner for three consecutive years is both humbling and inspiring. It energises us to keep raising the bar we set ourselves of exceeding the norm and thinking outside the square.”

“This award is not just a recognition of what we have achieved but a celebration of the people—our team, families, and community—who make Pachamama what it is. Together, we’re creating a legacy of love, learning, and connection that we are proud to share with future generations.” 

Learn more about Pachamama here. For more information about the KindiCare Awards, and to see a list of all winners and finalists for 2024, please see here.