It's always a great day for families with young children when a new childcare facility opens! Such is the case as of September 1, 2016.

Whitecap Dakota First Nation has partnered with Preston Early Learning to establish an early learning centre (ELC). The centre, located on Whitecap Dakota land, will provide 56 childcare spaces and services for families in and beyond Whitecap in the Saskatoon area. As an emerging regional employer with 680 employees, the need was high for more spots in the community. The ELC will offer the latest in child-friendly technology along with extended outdoor learning experiences.

"With approximately 800 on our waiting lists at our city locations, we are confident this state-of-the-art centre will fill up quickly," says Preston Early Learning's Executive Director Lisa Leibel.

More news on Whitecap:

• Significant education partnership a first in Saskatchewan
• Students build another new house for Whitecap Dakota First Nation
• New early learning centre set for Whitecap

The centre will provide care for infants through to school-age children. The childcare centre is attached to both the Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 4 school and a regional health centre. It is believed this "community hub" style of facility will serve both children and their families well.

"This early learning centre is a fine example of our efforts with other governments to break down walls of segregation and set children up for a future of opportunities," said Chief Darcy Bear of Whitecap Dakota First Nation. "The centre highlights the strong educational partnerships we have with federal and provincial governments, Preston Early Learning Centres, and Saskatoon Public Schools."

Whitecap Dakota First Nation is located approximately 26 km south of Saskatoon and has more than 500 residents living on-reserve, including Whitecap members, members of other First Nations, and non-status residents.