CESA announces expansion of its Early Learning Centre network

Reposted from Catholic Education South Australia on 23 June 2025

Pictured L-R: Dr Neil McGoran, Executive Director, CESA; Janet Coomber, Head of Campus, Xavier College Two Wells; Lachy Hogarth, Managing Director, Accord

Catholic Education South Australia has announced the first of multiple new Early Learning Centres (ELCs) to be delivered through a major partnership with Accord and Eden Academy.

The first ELC, co-located at Xavier College Two Wells, which will be known as Eden Grove is expected to open in Term 3, 2026. The $4 million purpose-built centre will cater for 141 children, offering care and learning from six weeks to five years of age. An additional Eden Grove ELC will open at Xavier College Riverlea Park in 2027.

Under the plan, Accord will be responsible for construction of the centre, while childcare provider, Eden Academy has been appointed as the operator, providing both long day care and preschool programs for 3 and 4-year-olds.

Dr Neil McGoran, Executive Director of Catholic Education SA, said: “Our ELC expansion will meet the 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.”

The expansion aligns with recommendations from the Royal Commission into Early Childhood Education and Care and reflects CESA’s commitment to develop stronger educational pathways from the early years through to Year 12.

Dr McGoran continues: “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.”

Accord Managing Director Lachy Hogarth added:“ We are excited to be working with Catholic Education South Australia on this significant initiative. High-quality early learning environments set the foundation for lifelong education, and we are committed to delivering exceptional facilities that foster growth and development. 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.”

Learn more www.edengroveelc.com.au