Occupancy has been declining for over three years. Previously, carefully chosen words on occupancy levels and increased revenue from new acquisitions kept shareholders happy, with all arrows in the reports pointing skywards.
There are many centres (not just G8) struggling with occupancy. There are also plenty centres, reporting very few vacancies. What are they doing differently? Same license, same staff ratio's, same staff qualifications, similar resources, similar fee charges, similar play areas and playgrounds. It's what you can't see. Connectedness with their community. G8 IMO are currently unable to successfully connect with their communities.
This is a problem that GC has inherited.
In the days of the BFF's the G8 juggernaut rolled into town "the biggest for profit" was the constant reminder, to anyone who would listen and some staff believed this made them untouchable. Some of those staff are still well entrenched within the company. I must also add that some of the educators employed by G8 are outstanding, caring professionals who provide high quality care to the children in their care.
So what's the difference between the biggest, for profit and the biggest, not for profit? Occupancy levels, in the not for profit sector are fairly high. Why; they are great communicators and focus on connection, rather than marketing. They are great advocates for early childhood education and care. Their social media is superb. Their professional development is varied, and staff have a say in what professional development they require, for themselves, to meet the needs of the children and families in their care. Their community connections are filling their centres.
The latest trial reported to being undertaken by G8, is piloting a call centre, which would take calls for bookings for a number of facilities.What parent would feel that this is acceptable? Bit like booking your car in for a service. Again, missing the chance to connect with families.
I find GC much more transparent than those who have previously walked the halls in Varsity Lakes, hopefully he can turn things around.
IMO & DYOR
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