Willowbrae Academy is a childcare and early education franchise focused on premium early learning programs. The brand was founded in 2011 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, with the goal of delivering high-quality childcare in safe, purpose-built environments.

Since its launch, Willowbrae Academy has expanded steadily across Canada and into the United States. The franchisor is headquartered in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.

Willowbrae Academy began franchising in 2011, offering entrepreneurs an opportunity in the growing early childhood education sector. The franchise provides care and education programs for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children.

Its academies are designed as modern learning centres that emphasize safety, structured routines, and age-appropriate developmental learning. Programs combine early education with full-day childcare services to meet the needs of working families.

Training

Willowbrae Academy provides a multi-level training system for franchisees and their key personnel, structured to support consistent operations and uphold brand standards. The training involves in-person, online, and on-site components. Here are the numbered programs:

1. Initial Training Program: Conducted over five days at the franchisor’s facilities in Halifax or Vancouver, this program must be completed by the Operating Principal and Licensed Operating Director. It covers essential topics such as programs and curriculum, family and employee management, food management, and disciplinary practices.
2. Web-Based Training: All employees are required to complete online training programs related to the services and products offered at the academy. Franchisees are responsible for the then-current fees associated with these programs and for ensuring timely enrollment and completion.
3. Ongoing Training and Support: Willowbrae Academy provides periodic on-site visits and operational guidance from field consultants. Franchisees must also be prepared to attend ongoing training sessions deemed necessary by the franchisor.
4. Additional On-Site Training: Franchisees can request extra on-site training beyond the initial program. If approved, the franchisor will charge per diem rates plus reimbursement for travel and other related expenses.

Territory Protection

Willowbrae Academy grants franchisees a defined Protected Area, within which no other Willowbrae Academy facility will be established as long as the franchisee complies with the franchise agreement. This territory is typically specified in the agreement and not subject to performance criteria, meaning a franchisee does not need to meet sales thresholds to retain territorial protection.

The franchisor also agrees not to modify this territory during the term of the agreement without cause.

However, Willowbrae Academy does not offer an exclusive territory, and franchisees may still face competition. The franchisor reserves the right to operate, or license others to operate, businesses outside the Protected Area, even if those businesses offer similar services and products but do not use the Willowbrae system or trademarks.