Affinity Education’s Papilo Early Learning, Schofields waiting list of 1000-plus children

The battle for childcare places is often the source of fierce competition and it’s no exception in western Sydney, with one centre boasting a waitlist of 1000-plus children after being open for a single month.

The battle for childcare places is often the source of fierce competition between parents, with a new centre opening its doors in Sydney’s west already boasting a waitlist of more than 1000 children.

Papilo Early Learning, operated by Affinity Education, opened at Schofields earlier this month to care for 67 children and had since been inundated with hopeful parents searching for childcare.

Affinity Education's Papilio Early Learning, Schofields. Picture: Supplied

Affinity Education's Papilio Early Learning Schofields says they already have a waitlist of over 1000 children. Picture: Supplied

A recent report from Victoria University affiliated Mitchell Institute revealed there was only one spot for every 2.3 children in the Blacktown area.

Affinity Education area manager Catherine Magazzu said demand in the area was “incredibly high”.

“We wish we had double the spaces available so that we could give every child the area access to Affinity Education’s Lifelong Learning approach,” she said.

Catherine Magazzu, Affinity Education group area manager for Schofields

“We know there’s a shortage in great childcare options, and we’re happy we can help alleviate that shortage in a small way by offering 67 children a place in our centre, giving their parents the ability to return to work.”

An Affinity Education spokeswoman said the company was looking at launching more childcare centres in growing communities.