After a devastating overnight fire nearly destroyed a prestigious Subiaco daycare centre two years ago, the family-owned business is celebrating a remarkable rebirth as it prepares to reopen its doors next month.
A Phoenix Rising from the Ashes
The Subiaco School of Early Learning (SOEL) was burnt almost to the ground in early 2024 following a blaze believed to have been caused by an electrical fault. The fire destroyed approximately ninety percent of the building, leaving staff, families, and the local community in shock.
At the time, the organisation immediately committed to a complete rebuild, a promise they have now fulfilled after an extensive two-year construction period.
Community Resilience and Commitment
Subiaco SOEL manager Amy Clarke expressed the team's excitement about reopening. "All of us here at SOEL are eagerly awaiting the chance to reopen our doors to the vibrant Subiaco community that placed their trust in us for over a decade," she said.
The rebuild represents more than just physical reconstruction; it symbolises the resilience of a local business and the enduring trust of the families it serves.
A $4 Million Transformation
The ambitious rebuild project came with a price tag of about $4 million and has resulted in a completely redesigned facility. The new layout has been carefully planned to accommodate up to 109 children, providing ample space for exploration while ensuring educators have clear sight lines for enhanced supervision.
Key improvements in the rebuilt centre include:
- Expanded space for three and four-year-old kindergarten programs
- An enlarged mezzanine level for additional learning areas
- Extended verandahs providing additional shade and outdoor learning opportunities
- Brand-new amenities throughout the facility
Blending Tradition with Innovation
SOEL CEO Matthew Wright emphasised that the rebuild honours the centre's original qualities while introducing exciting enhancements. "This rebuild restores all the state-of-the-art qualities that made the original centre so special, as well as exciting new enhancements," he explained.
"Families can look forward to the same commitment to high-quality childcare that we prioritise in all of our centres, along with brand-new amenities that will enhance their experience throughout the centre."
Welcoming Back the Community
The centre's reopening represents a homecoming for many families. Numerous parents who originally enrolled older children at SOEL now have younger siblings ready to attend the revitalised facility. Former staff members are also returning to be part of the centre's next chapter.
To introduce the community to the transformed facility, SOEL will host an open day on February 7 from 10am to 12 noon, allowing interested families to tour the premises. The centre will then officially reopen its doors on February 9, marking a significant milestone in its recovery journey.
The successful rebuild of Subiaco School of Early Learning demonstrates how community-focused businesses can overcome significant challenges through determination, investment, and unwavering commitment to serving their local area.
