The Nurture One Tamworth Children's Centre in North Tamworth closed in late March, notifying families it was due to a COVID outbreak at the facility and staffing shortages due to isolation requirements.

However, the Department of Education confirmed to the Leader the temporary closure is due to the centre's inability to meet staffing requirements under the National Law and Regulations.

"As the regulator of Education and Care Services in NSW, the department's first priority is the health, safety and wellbeing of children," the spokesperson said.

"The department works closely with providers to ensure they are aware of their obligations under the National Quality Framework and other state laws and works with providers to address compliance issues quickly to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of children."

Resignation letters sent to the Leader show that at least six staff members have parted ways with the centre since the start of the year.

Letters also show parents were told their children would be relocated to the Community Kids Tamworth Early Education Centre in Coledale, however, these arrangements are yet to be made.

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When approached by the Leader, education provider G8 Education, who operates the facility and numerous others in town, said the shut down was due to a number of team members isolating due to COVID.

"We have unfortunately needed to temporarily close our Tamworth Nurture One centre," a spokesperson said.

"It has not been possible for us to safely operate our service without enough team members to meet required educator-to-child ratios.

"We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this has caused and we are staying in touch with our families to advise when we are able to reopen."

A spokesperson for the Department of Education said it acknowledges the impact the closure may have on families. The department encouraged anyone requiring support to contact them on 1800 619 113 or ececd@det.nsw.edu.au

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