The Little Red Brick House that raised generations of Cairns children

Just Kids Early Education House celebrates 40 years of nurturing children, supporting families and creating lasting memories in the heart of Cairns

For four decades, a little red brick house nestled on Draper Street, Cairns has been quietly shaping some very big futures.

This September, Just Kids Early Education House celebrates 40 years of welcoming children and families through its doors. Four decades filled with first friendships, curious minds, laughter, learning and countless childhood memories.

Established in 1986 by Elizabeth and Bruce Ennis, Just Kids has remained proudly family owned and operated throughout its history. In 2010, Hayley and Heath Williams took ownership, continuing a story that already held special meaning for Hayley, who began her own teaching career at Just Kids in the early 1990s.

While early childhood education has changed enormously over the past 40 years, the heart of Just Kids has remained remarkably familiar, fostering strong, genuine relationships and creating an environment where children feel valued, confident and encouraged to be creative. At the centre of it all is the enduring belief that children are capable, curious learners with enormous potential.

And then, of course, there is the house itself.

Its distinctive red brick walls, generous outdoor spaces and much loved winding staircase have been part of the childhoods of generations of Cairns families. Some of those children are now parents themselves, returning through the same doors with children of their own.

To celebrate this remarkable milestone, Just Kids is inviting old, new and future families to come back to the JK House for a special 40th Birthday Family Fun Afternoon on Friday 25 September, from 3:30pm–5:30pm.

Guests can wander through the house, reconnect with familiar faces and explore a special gallery of photographs and memories spanning more than 40 years.

Whether Just Kids is part of your past, your present, or perhaps your family’s future, you’re invited to come and celebrate.

40 years of memories. 40 years of learning. 40 years of nurturing potential. One very special JK House.