KZN DOE: ‘Chatsworth creche was unregistered’

The Chatsworth creche under investigation after a toddler’s fall from an unsecured balcony, is unregistered, the KZN Department of Education (DOE) confirmed today.

The department began its investigation into the compliance and safety protocols at the creche on March 17.

“The creche was found to be unregistered. Officials are working closely to ensure the compliance issues are also addressed,” said Muzi Mahlambi, spokesperson for the KZN DOE.

On March 6, Aariya Sewnarain, 2, sustained serious head injuries - including a fractured skull - when she was allegedly left unsupervised and fell from the upstairs balcony of the creche.

She is now recovering at home, her parents said this morning.

Last night, the owner of Honey Bunch Day Care Centre, in Arena Park, Sherina Ramsunder, sent a WhatsApp message to parents informing them the creche would permanently close its doors on March 28 (Friday), due to “unforeseen circumstances”.

In her message to the parents, Ramsunder said: “Regretfully, with much sadness and a very heavy heart, I have to officially close Honey Bunch Day Care as of March 28, 2025, at 5pm, due to unforeseen circumstances.

“The decrease in the number of children attending creche is not feasible to keep it open. You are all good parents and so are our lovely children who I will miss dearly. A sincere and wholehearted thanks to my staff who have worked ardently and dedicated their time in making Honey Bunch successful for the past years. Their love and gratitude will always be remembered. I wish them all the best and success going forward. I am really sorry for the inconvenience.”

Reacting to the news that the creche was unregistered, Aariya’s father, Atholl Sewnarain, said: “We did not know that the creche was unregistered when we enrolled in Aariya in January this year. We knew that they had been operating for many years, so we trusted that they were compliant. We heard that they are closing down last night. 

"Aariya is doing well now. She was discharged from hospital and she went for her check-up today. The doctors are pleased with her recovery. But we have to continuously monitor her as per the doctor's orders, as head injuries can result in further complications later on in her life,” added Sewnarain.

Ramsunder could not be reached for comment.

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