Regulated childcare services have been available at Memorial University's St. John's campus since 1976.  Initially, pre-school and school-age programs were offered in the Corte Real Building, part of the Burton's Pond Residence Complex.  These programs were established through the efforts of Memorial student leaders, with support from the university administration.  At its inception, the original childcare centre accommodated approximately 20 pre-school children and 30 school-age children.

In November 1991, a new purpose-built facility was officially opened.  Today, it continues to serve the university community and provides care for children aged two to twelve years, with a licensed capacity of 194 children across four distinct centres.

Originally operated by the Memorial University of Newfoundland Students' Union (MUNSU), the Childcare Centre became a Separately Incorporated Entity (SIE) of Memorial University in 2006.  It is governed by an appointed Board of Directors comprising of faculty members, representatives from the Department of Human Resources and Financial Services, Legal Counsel, Student and Parent Representatives, and the Centre's Executive Director.

Dr. Carole Peterson, a long-serving board member, has reflected on the challenges faced in planning and constructing the Childcare Centre.  Her recollections in the attached article highlight the dedication and perseverance of key individuals who helped turn the vision of a high-quality childcare facility into a reality.

Thanks to the combined efforts of the Students' Union and the Childcare Centre Board of Directors, this dream was realized.  We take pride in these achievements and remain committed to enriching the lives of children for many years to come.