Our Story

A Mother’s Vision Realised

Bella Grace Early Learning, founded in 2003 by Amanda Southwell, began with a mother’s dream. Amanda envisioned creating safe, stimulating, and hygienic environments where children could enjoy a wonderful early childhood experience. Inspired by her children, Bella and Harry, this vision has now expanded to serve over 455 families across five locations on the Sunshine Coast. Each centre is designed to foster a sense of community, love, and excellence in early childhood education.

Our Story

Bella Grace Early Learning was founded by Amanda Southwell, a mother of two, who wanted better childcare options on the Sunshine Coast. She created Bella Grace Early Learning to provide a nurturing, safe, and stimulating environment.

The first centre, Bella Grace Aroona, exceeded regulatory standards with spacious environments and passionate educators. Its success led to additional locations at Chancellor Park and Beerwah, all maintaining high standards.

Bella Grace partnered with Brightwater State School, becoming the first private early childhood provider in Queensland to offer an attached kindergarten with full-day care year-round.

The demand at Bella Grace Beerwah resulted in a dedicated kindergarten facility, increasing capacity and easing the transition to formal schooling.

Despite growth, Bella Grace stays true to Amanda’s vision of high-quality, respectful, and stimulating early childhood education and care.

Exceeding the
National Standard

At Bella Grace, we are incredibly proud to be the only early childhood provider in Queensland where every centre has achieved an 'EXCEEDING' rating under the National Quality Standard. This recognition reflects our commitment and is a testament in ensuring parents that their children are in an environment that consistently surpasses the highest benchmarks for quality, safety and early learning outcomes. 

About Us

  • To provide a higher level of education and care for the children in our community, ensuring every child feels valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential. 

  • At Bella Grace, our philosophy is in the belief that children learn best when they feel valued and secure. We nurture children through love and respect, emphasising a child-centred approach that collaborates with families to meet children's needs and interests.

  • Learning Through Play: We believe in the power of play as a fundamental aspect of learning and development. Our play-based approach encourages creativity, exploration, and critical thinking.

    Relationships: Building strong, nurturing relationships with children and families is at the heart of our practice. We believe that positive relationships foster a sense of security and belonging.

    Environment: Our centres provide rich, stimulating learning environments that inspire curiosity and creativity. We use natural materials and design spaces that encourage children to explore and learn.

    Intentional Teaching: Our educators facilitate meaningful learning experiences that extend children’s development, guiding them to achieve their full potential.

    Well-being: Promoting the holistic well-being of each child is a priority. We focus on emotional, social, physical, and cognitive development, ensuring each child thrives in our care.

  • Meaningful Learning Opportunities: Through play and exploration, we provide children with opportunities to engage in meaningful, hands-on learning experiences.

    Supportive Learning Community: We create a supportive and inclusive learning community where children, families, and educators work together to promote optimal development.

    Rich Play-Based Environment: Our environments are designed to stimulate imagination and creativity, providing children with endless opportunities to explore and learn.

    Intentional Learning Experiences: We offer intentional learning experiences that foster curiosity and wonder, helping children develop a love for learning.

    Environmental Sustainability: We embed sustainable practices into our daily routines, teaching children the importance of caring for our planet.

    Inclusive Environment: We value each child and family, embracing diversity and promoting an inclusive culture where everyone feels welcome.

    Holistic Nurturing: We support the individual developmental pace of each child, providing a nurturing and supportive environment that meets their unique needs.

Meet the Founder

Amanda Southwell

Amanda Southwell is the founder and General Manager of Bella Grace Early Learning, established in 2003. With over 20 years of experience in Early Childhood Education and Care, Amanda created Bella Grace to provide the best care for her children, Bella and Harry.

Amanda's background in Accounting, Human Resources, and Business Operations ensures smooth and efficient operations. Her philosophy, "Would I want this for my own children?" guides every decision, focusing on children's well-being and development.

Under Amanda's leadership, Bella Grace has grown from one center to five, serving over 455 families on the Sunshine Coast, all rated 'EXCEEDING' under the National Quality Standard.

In her free time, Amanda enjoys hiking, nature walks, cooking family meals, and hosting gatherings. Her dedication to family and professional excellence continues to drive the success of Bella Grace Early Learning.

Our Families

  • Very professional, clean, tidy, fun and safe environment for all children. Lovely educators, my son enjoys coming to Bella Grace.

    Sheena

  • We're grateful for Bella Grace educators and staff; they've positively influenced Dominic and Sebastian's lives. Thank you for everything!

    Karyn

  • We've had an excellent experience with Bella Grace Beerwah carers. Our girls adore them. Mel, Peta, and Kristy are wonderful. Thanks!

    Rebecca