On Tuesday, August 19, 2025, London Bridge Child Care notified families and the Avon Maitland District School Board (AMDSB) that it would be withdrawing its Before & After School Programs at Exeter Elementary School and Bluewater Coast Elementary School, as well as its Preschool Program at Bluewater Coast.
These programs are essential for parents of young children, and we are committed to actively seeking a new provider to continue the programs.
We have valued our partnership with London Bridge Child Care for many years and sincerely thank them for their service. At the same time, we acknowledge that this decision leaves families in a very difficult position.
Since receiving notification, we have connected with the Manager of Children’s Services for the County of Huron and invited potential providers to consider operating the before- and after-school programs at these locations.
Unfortunately, childcare providers continue to report staffing challenges affecting operators across Huron and Perth Counties. This is not the first provider to terminate a contract, and for the past three years, we have been actively searching for operators to fill gaps at three other Huron County schools and one Perth County school. Large waiting lists for before- and after-school programs remain a concern across both counties. While school space is available to expand programs, many operators are unable to staff them.
We will continue to work closely with Huron County Children’s Services, the Municipality of South Huron, the Municipality of Bluewater and other partners to identify solutions. Updates will be shared with families as soon as they are available.
If you know of a provider or organization in the community that may be interested in offering this service, please contact Laurel Mitchell, Facilities Supervisor at the Avon Maitland District School Board, by phone at (519) 527-0111 ext. 600205 or by email at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the provider pull out?
This was a decision made by the childcare provider. We respect their right to make business or operational choices.
What options do families have now?
We are in discussions with the County of Huron, the Municipality of South Huron, the Municipality of Bluewater and other providers. We will communicate options as they become available.
Will AMDSB open or run daycare spaces directly?
The board does not operate licensed childcare programs, but we partner with childcare providers to make use of school spaces where possible. We are actively looking at what supports may be available moving forward.
How are families being supported in the meantime?
We are committed to keeping families informed and connected with resources. Our team is in contact with community partners to explore short- and long-term solutions.
Why wasn’t this communicated sooner?
Families and AMDSB were notified at the same time by London Bridge Child Care. Since then, we have been working quickly with our partners to explore next steps and are committed to sharing information as it becomes available.
For media inquiries and event details, please contact:
Chera Longston, Communications Manager (AMDSB)
Email: [email protected]