Over the course of 12 years, Jakob expanded the business to 54 centres across New South Wales, Canberra, and Melbourne. The success was grounded in a consistent focus on high quality early learning programs, higher than average staff to child ratios, and a physical environment designed to prioritise both safety and child development. Jakob later reflected that her philosophy was rooted in quality over profit an approach that stood in contrast to trends she observed in the broader industry. As large private equity firms began entering the childcare space, she noticed growing pressure to prioritise efficiency and scale at the expense of educational outcomes. This shift contributed to her decision to step away from the business in 2018. That year, the majority of Little Learning School centres were sold to Bain Capital Private Equity, with the remaining centres later acquired by global operator Busy Bees in 2020.

While Jakob’s exit marked the end of her involvement in early education, it signalled the beginning of a new chapter in her entrepreneurial journey. She went on to launch BondiBoost, a haircare brand that rapidly expanded into international markets and was ultimately acquired by U.S.-based investment firm Gauge Capital. Her interests continued to diversify with the opening of a Mediterranean restaurant in Bondi and, in 2024, the establishment of Globe Wealth, a private investment firm with a focus on sectors including education, real estate, hospitality, and media. Jakob’s work in early childhood education remains a cornerstone of her business legacy. Her story is one of deliberate growth, led not by expansion for its own sake but by a firm commitment to quality and trust values that remain highly relevant as early education systems continue to evolve around the world.

As governments and private providers across Europe seek to expand access to childcare while maintaining standards, Early childhood education remains a critical focus for governments across Europe as they work to improve accessibility, affordability, and quality. In countries like Portugal, where public and private childcare services coexist, the challenge lies in balancing expansion with consistent standards of care and educational outcomes.

The European Commission continues to support initiatives aimed at improving early learning environments, including increased funding, better training for educators, and integrated family support services. Meanwhile, parents across the continent are seeking options that go beyond basic supervision expecting centres to provide structured learning, emotional development, and safe social environments.

Recent trends also show a growing interest in smaller-scale, community-driven childcare models that prioritise relationships and personalised care. These shifts reflect broader changes in how early education is valued not just as a stepping stone to primary school, but as a foundational stage of lifelong development. As the sector continues to evolve, examples from around the world offer useful insights. Whether through public investment, innovation in private models, or hybrid approaches, the focus remains the same: ensuring that the youngest members of society have access to supportive, enriching environments that meet both their educational and emotional needs.