CESA expands early learning footprint with Accord and Eden Academy in South Australia

Catholic Education South Australia (CESA) has announced a major expansion of its early childhood offering, unveiling plans for two new early learning centres (ELCs) in partnership with Accord and Eden Academy.

The first centre, to be known as Eden Grove, will open in Term 3, 2026, co-located at Xavier College Two Wells. A second site will follow in 2027 at Xavier College Riverlea Park.

The $4 million Two Wells facility will cater for up to 141 children, offering long day care and preschool programs for children aged six weeks to five years. Construction will be managed by Accord, with Eden Academy appointed to operate the centre.

Dr Neil McGoran, Executive Director of Catholic Education SA, said the expansion would help meet increasing demand for Catholic education across South Australia.

“Most importantly, it will enable us to engage with families sooner, and support children’s faith formation and social, cognitive and emotional development, which will prepare them for future learning.”

He added that the initiative reflects the growing importance placed on the early years by families.

“The early years play a vital role in every child’s development, and we believe that together we can provide exceptional early learning centres for the growing needs of South Australians.
Families increasingly value a strong foundation for learning from the early years through to primary school, and co-located ELCs can support this by offering aligned educational approaches.”

The move aligns with recommendations from the Royal Commission into Early Childhood Education and Care, which emphasised the need for stronger early learning pathways.

Building spaces where young children thrive

Accord Managing Director Lachy Hogarth described the initiative as a significant step forward in the provision of high-quality early learning in South Australia.

“High-quality early learning environments set the foundation for lifelong education. These centres will be designed to provide an engaging and nurturing space for young learners, integrating innovative learning environments with high-quality construction standards.
We are proud to contribute to the future of Catholic education in South Australia,” Mr Hogarth said.

Read the full announcement from Catholic Education South Australia here.