Our Story
Crafting a New Experience in Childcare, from the Heart of the Perth Hills
From our beginnings, we’ve grown into a multi-award-winning early education and out-of-school care provider in the Perth Hills of Western Australia, where children can learn, play and flourish among nature.
Our name, inspired by the Earth Mother “Pachamama,” reflects our belief that children thrive best when surrounded by the natural world and a culture of respect.
Pachamama is a home-away-from-home steeped in nature, creativity and diversity aiming to influence the best possible outcome for all children involved in early education and childcare.
Our Story & Philosophy
Since opening in the Perth Hills, Pachamama has offered families a place where care feels like home and learning feels like play.
Our philosophy is simple:
Children are capable, creative, and curious, and our role is to nurture that spirit.
Every part of Pachamama’s environment is designed to support that belief.
From our tree-shaded outdoor spaces to our custom-built art studios, nature and creativity are woven into the daily rhythm of every child’s experience.
We encourage exploration, imagination, and friendship, helping children grow into kind, confident and resilient young people.
Our Educators
Behind every happy child is a team of caring, qualified educators.
At Pachamama, our staff bring warmth, professionalism and a sense of wonder to everything they do. Our educators are:
Qualified & Experienced: Our educators hold recognised teaching, early childhood and school-age care qualifications.
Diverse & Inclusive: We celebrate cultural backgrounds and perspectives that enrich learning.
Long-Term Team: Many of our team members have been with Pachamama for years, providing continuity and familiarity for families.
Passionate About Growth: Ongoing training ensures our team remains at the forefront of early childhood education.
“Our educators don’t just supervise, they inspire curiosity, independence and joy.”
Community Involvement
Our Community & Culture
Pachamama is a vibrant community where children, families, and educators learn from each other every day.
We value diversity, inclusion and global connection, from our partnerships with local schools to international initiatives like the Maasai Urafiki Project in Africa.
Our philosophy extends beyond the classroom:
"We believe in giving back, embracing difference, and nurturing a sense of belonging that lasts long after a child’s time with us."
Awards & Accreditations
Telstra Business Awards – WA State Winner (2018)
In 2018, Pachamama was recognised as the WA State Winner in the Small & Succeeding category of the prestigious Telstra Business Awards.
Judges praised Pachamama’s creative, nature-inspired learning environments and its commitment to community, diversity, and imagination—encouraging children to “think outside the square.”
“At Pachamama, we create environments that are both inspirational and aspirational.”
— Kristen McPhail, Director
Telstra Business Awards – National Winner (2018)
From over 10,000 nominations, Pachamama went on to become one of only six national award winners—and the first education provider in the Awards’ 26-year history to achieve this honour.
Judges commended Pachamama’s clear vision, strong business strategy, and outstanding workplace culture, recognising the dedication of its educators and leadership.
“We’re honoured by this extraordinary acknowledgment from Telstra and grateful to our educators—past and present—for helping us achieve such wonderful results.” — Kristen McPhail, Director
Ethnic Business Awards – Finalist (2022)
From humble beginnings to a thriving organisation, Director Kristen McPhail’s journey is one of resilience and purpose.
Arriving in Australia with little more than determination, she built Pachamama into a 50-plus-strong team transforming early education through creativity, diversity and a deep respect for nature.
“The vast majority of our team are immigrants, and I’d like to acknowledge their hard work every day in raising the future generation of Australians.”
— Kristen McPhail, Director
