A childcare centre in Bathurst, New South Wales, is under investigation after three children allegedly escaped the premises and were seen near a road by a passer-by.
Jenny’s Kindergarten & Early Learning Centre Bathurst has explained that the incident occurred due to “loose latches on the gates” that blew open in the wind, creating an unexpected situation.
In a message to parents, which was seen by the ABC, the centre’s manager confirmed they had self-reported the incident to the NSW Department of Education. The facility is conducting an internal investigation “to address any potential negligence” within its staff.
The NSW Department of Education has acknowledged the investigation into the incident at the George Street centre, located in the heart of Bathurst. A department spokesperson said in a statement, “The health, safety, and wellbeing of children is our top priority. The regulatory authority conducts thorough investigations into every claim it receives.”
The NSW Early Childhood Education and Care Regulatory Authority will carry out its investigation, which may include a visit to the service, gathering evidence, and taking any necessary action depending on the severity of the situation and the risk to children.
The regulator emphasized its commitment to “taking strong action when child safety is at risk.”
A man, who witnessed the escape on his way to pick up his own child from school, shared his experience on social media. He reported seeing “three little girls, about two years old, playing near the road with no parents around.”
He added that by the time he had parked his car and approached the children, they had wandered further to the driveway of a nearby movie theatre. The man returned the children to the childcare centre, but noted that the staff member who came outside appeared “not shocked, surprised, or thankful.”
In response, the centre assured parents that it was “extremely grateful” to the community member who ensured the children’s safe return. The facility manager concluded the message by expressing, “This is something I will not take lightly, and I hope you will continue to trust us with the care of your children.”
When contacted by the ABC for comment, a staff member at the centre declined to discuss the incident at this time.
