Best Workplaces for Women 2025

We are proud to share that Story House Early Learning has been recognised as one of Australia’s Best Workplaces for Women in 2025 by Great Place to Work® Australia.

This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to gender equity, inclusion, and creating opportunities for women to grow and thrive at every level of our organisation. 

We champion women’s careers, ensuring that every Story House-er has the support and opportunities they need to succeed. This certification is a testament to our people, our culture and our dedication to making a real impact.

Great Place to Work Certified 2023, 2024 & 2025

Top 10 Best Places to Work 2023 & 2024

The Great Place to Work® Certification recognises organisations with outstanding workplace cultures based on employee trust and feedback. Story House Early Learning has been certified as a Great Place to Work for three consecutive years: 2023, 2024 and 2025!

In both 2023 and 2024, we were also named one of Australia’s Top 10 Best Places to Work, making us the only early learning provider to receive this honour. This recognition highlights our ongoing commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive environment where our team feels valued and empowered.

Being the sole early learning provider on these lists reflects the passion and dedication of our Story House-ers, reinforcing our reputation as an employer of choice.

SEEK STAR Awards 2024 - Winner

Best Candidate Experience

The SEEK Talent Acquisition Recognition (STAR) Awards celebrate excellence in talent acquisition across Australia, recognising organisations that create exceptional hiring experiences. The Best Candidate Experience award highlights employers that prioritise transparent communication, efficiency and genuine engagement throughout the recruitment process.

We are committed to providing a positive and supportive journey for every candidate. A people-first approach ensures clear communication, personalised interactions, and a welcoming experience from start to finish.

The Best HR Executives in Australia and New Zealand | The Hot List - 2025/2024

For two consecutive years, our Head of People and Culture, Kate Ludwig, has been recognised in the HRD Hot List, a testament to her exceptional leadership in talent strategy, workplace culture, and employee engagement. This achievement reflects Kate's dedication to fostering a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. At Story House Careers, we believe great HR leadership is about more than policies, it’s about shaping an environment where every person can grow and succeed.

Seek STAR Awards 2022 - Finalist

Being named a finalist in the 2022 SEEK STAR Awards was a proud achievement. This recognition highlighted our dedication to excellence in talent acquisition and our commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for early childhood educators. Being acknowledged among the best in the industry reinforced our focus on fostering a positive candidate experience and supporting career growth in early learning.

AHRI Award 2024 - Winner

Best Health and Wellbeing Strategy

Winning the Best Health and Wellbeing Strategy at the 2024 AHRI Awards highlights Story House Early Learning’s dedication to supporting the holistic wellbeing of our team. This award recognises innovative programs that prioritise employee health, mental wellbeing, and work-life balance.

Our approach ensures that every Story House-er feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive – both personally and professionally. This achievement reflects our ongoing commitment to creating a positive, healthy workplace that champions the wellbeing of our people.

AHRI Award 2024 - Finalist

Best Use of Technology

Being named a finalist for the Best Use of Technology at the 2024 AHRI Awards is a proud reflection of how Story House Early Learning integrates innovation with purpose. Technology is more than just a tool for us; it’s a catalyst for enhancing connection, fostering growth, and ensuring that every Story House-er feels seen, heard, and supported. Our approach to technology strengthens our ability to create meaningful relationships, streamline processes, and cultivate environments where both our people and the children in our care can thrive.

Outstanding Leadership Awards 2024

Courageous Organisation - Finalist

Executive Leader of the year - Finalist

Emerging Leader of the year - Finalist

We believe true leadership is built on courage, kindness, and inclusion. Being recognised as a finalist for the Courageous Organisation Award is a testament to our commitment to fostering a workplace where every voice is valued, and every individual is empowered to grow.

Our dedication to bold and compassionate leadership is further reflected in our Executive Leader of the Year finalist, whose vision and integrity drive meaningful change. We are also proud to celebrate our Emerging Leader of the Year finalist, a shining example of the next generation of leaders shaping the future with passion and purpose.

Internal Talent Awards 2024 – Winner

Excellence in Innovation

Winning the Excellence in Innovation award at the 2024 Internal Talent Awards reflects Story House Early Learning’s forward-thinking approach to talent acquisition and employee development. This award recognises organisations that implement creative and effective strategies to attract, retain, and develop top talent.

Our innovative initiatives ensure we stay ahead in fostering a workplace that not only supports growth but inspires new ideas and solutions. This recognition highlights our commitment to driving continuous improvement and creating meaningful career pathways for our Story House-ers.

Australian HR Awards 2024 - Finalist

Best Use of Technology

Best Health and Wellbeing Strategy

We believe that great HR practices shape strong, supportive workplaces. Being acknowledged in the Australian HR Awards is a testament to our commitment to creating meaningful career pathways and fostering a positive workplace culture. We are excited to stand alongside industry leaders and celebrate the impact of HR.

The Circle Back Initiative

Story House Careers is proud to be part of the Circle Back Initiative. We are committed to ensuring every candidate receives a response, recognising the time, effort, and hope invested in each application. By prioritising a respectful and transparent hiring experience, we aim to create a process that values every applicant and strengthens our employer brand.

Pride in Diversity Member

Being a Pride in Diversity Member reflects our strong commitment to fostering LGBTQ+ inclusion and equality within the workplace. This membership aligns Story House Early Learning with Australia’s leading workplace inclusion program, dedicated to improving LGBTQ+ representation, visibility, and support across industries.

By becoming a Pride in Diversity Member in 2024, Story House joins a network of forward-thinking organisations that actively work to create safer, more inclusive environments where everyone feels respected and valued.

Early Learning and Care Council of Australia (ELACCA)

As a proud member of ELACCA, we stay connected to national advocacy, policy insights, and sector innovations that help us provide the highest quality early learning experiences for children and families.

Early Childhood Australia (ECA)

As a member of ECA, we align with best practices, professional standards, and evidence based approaches to ensure every child thrives in a high-quality early learning environment.