A Paradise daycare centre has been shut down by government officials due to what the Department of Education calls “repeated and ongoing violations.”

Paradise Daycare and Preschool’s operations have been suspended for a two-week period, starting on December 20 and running through to January 2.

Numerous violations have been recorded, including a serious incident in August in which the owner and staff got involved in what was described as a “prolonged and aggressive verbal altercation” during which time the children were inadequately supervised.

In one instance, cleaning products were left unlocked and accessible to children.

Officials say the department had communicated to the centre on “multiple occasions” about issues and the possibility of suspension prior to the shutdown.

The department says Paradise Daycare and Preschool is taking corrective action to ensure quality care and is expected to reopen for service on January 5.

The department says child care operators are not allowed to charge fees during a suspension period. If families have already paid for that period, the operator has to issue a full refund for the two-week suspension.