About Us

Our Story

i9 Education Story

At i9 Education, we’re a family-owned childcare group led by a passionate husband-and-wife team with over 15 years’ experience revitalising early learning centres across Victoria. More than just education, we’re about shaping the future through meaningful relationships, empowered learning and strong community ties.

Our founders remain deeply involved in daily operations, personally connecting with each centre to ensure our values of trust, quality, and heart-led education are felt in every interaction. We know our educators by name, create environments that feel like home, and strive to make every child feel safe, nurtured and inspired to grow.

i9 Education Through the Years

2005
Where It All Began

Inspired by the need for high quality childcare that feels like home, i9 Education was founded by parents for parents.

2010
Melton South Breakthrough

We revived a struggling centre in Melton South, growing it into a thriving, trusted part of the community.

2011
Kingsville Transformation

We brought a deserted Kingsville ABC site back to life, turning it into a successful and welcoming learning environment.

2012
Greensborough Renewal

Taking over an abandoned centre, we remodelled Greensborough into a fully booked, vibrant space for local families.

2013
Hillside Turnaround

With experience and heart, we helped Hillside find its feet again—becoming a trusted haven for children and families.

2014
Carrum Downs Rebuild

From vandalised and abandoned to fully operational in under a year, Carrum Downs became a proud symbol of resilience and care.

2015
Knoxfield Purpose-Built Centre

We opened a brand-new centre in Knoxfield, designed with families in mind for peace of mind and true home-like care.

(2016-2019)
Steady Growth & Community Focus

From Geelong’s heritage-renovated centre to Fairfield and Sunshine, each new centre was thoughtfully opened to meet local needs.

2021
Resilience Through the Pandemic

Despite global challenges, we opened Community Kids Haven Ardeer and The Hive Ashburton, continuing to support Melbourne families.

2023
Introducing The Fern Early Learning Centre

We launched our new brand, The Fern, with Hampton Park as the first location — blending nature-inspired design with warm, personalised care.

2024
Cheltenham Grows The Fern Family

Opening our second Fern centre in Cheltenham, we extended our commitment to high-quality, nurturing early learning.

2025+
Looking Ahead

With more centres on the horizon, i9 Education continues to grow with heart — always focused on children, families, and creating meaningful workplaces for educators.

Meet Our Founders

Ahsan Zafar

CEO & Founder

With a vision sparked in 2005, Ahsan brings over 2 decades of experience in creating childcare centres where children, families, and educators feel truly valued. His focus remains on building safe, nurturing environments that feel like a second home.

Ayesha Ahsan

Director of Operations

Ayesha works closely with the Area Manager Team every day, ensuring each service runs smoothly and with care. Passionate about supporting educators and families alike, she plays a key role in shaping the positive, community-driven culture i9 Education is known for.

Our Values

C

Create

We create safe, engaging spaces where children can learn, play, and explore.

A

Aspire

We aspire to nurture each child’s potential through meaningful experiences.

R

Respect

We respect every child’s individuality, culture, and voice.

E

Empower

We empower children, families, and educators to grow with confidence and purpose.

Our Brands