YOUTH PROGRAMS
School Groups
All School Programs are now reserved online
Our school programs bring history to life by creating an interactive and fun environment for youth to engage, learn, and explore! Based on the Core Competencies outcomes of the BC curriculum, our programs are designed to connect and supplement teachers with core learning objectives such as critical thinking, effective communication, and personal responsibility. Our focus is on multi-disciplinary, cross-curricular, and thoughtful learning.
We have highlighted which programs best suit various grade levels and ages, but this does not limit you to that program. Our school programs also fulfill some requirements Girl Guides and Scouts badges.
Commitment to Access:
- Designated aides are always admitted for free. Please let us know how we can best support you in the registration booking notes.
- We partner with service-based organizations and schools to provide free access to our museum for underserved or marginalized communities. Please use our bursary form to let us know more about your needs.
If you have questions or are not sure which experience would best suit your group’s needs, please email programs@mmbc.bc.ca before filling in an online form, and include:
- How many people are in your group
- The age of the participants (e.g. children, youth, adults, seniors)
- A little bit about the needs or interests of your group
If you are interested in a day or time not listed on our calendar, please email programs@mmbc.bc.ca as we still may be able to accommodate your group.
BOOKING YOUR SCHOOL GROUP VISIT
A non-refundable $10 deposit is required to reserve a group experience
Within 3-5 working days of submitting your deposit, we will confirm your reservation via email and submit an invoice for the remaining cost of the program.
If you need to change your date, please get in touch with us at schong@mmbc.bc.ca as soon as you can (two week’s notice is appreciated) and we can shift your deposit to another day.
We appreciate that teachers and supervisors support a positive learning experience and therefore offer free entrance to 1 adult chaperone for every 5 students.
MMBC staff may ask supervising adults with assistance with group or school programs.
BRINGING YOUR SCHOOL GROUP TO THE MARITIME MUSEUM OF BC
Arrival
- Please check in at the front desk upon arrival
- One of our educators will meet your group outside and give you a quick orientation before coming inside
- If you arrive early for a school program, please feel free to enjoy the museum and the activity booklet. Our educator will meet you outside 5 minutes before the start of your school program
- In case of delay, please call 250-385-4222
Emergency Procedures
- In a medical or first-aid emergency, please notify a staff member or volunteer immediately
- In the event of an emergency where the building must be evacuated, our alarms will sound and emergency lights will flash
- Please follow the instructions of MMBC staff and proceed to muster area across Douglas Street
PROGRAMS
M = In Museum
O = Outreach
V = Virtual
Pollution Solutions (M/O - 45 min)
In Pollution Solutions, students will discuss where water comes from, recognize that freshwater is a limited resource, and explore the water cycle. Then, students will consider the questions: How are the oceans and water connected to us? What is pollution? How can we keep our water clean? By the end of the program, students will leave with a sense of optimism and tangible ways that they can keep the ocean healthy.
Pollution Solutions is best is best aligned to the K-Grade 2 BC Science curriculum K-Grade 1 BC Social Studies curriculum, but can be adapted for a younger audience.
In Search of Equality: Deconstructing Immigration Experiences to the West Coast of BC (M/O/V - 90 min)
Immigration has significantly shaped our country, resulting in the culturally diverse landscapes that we see today. Immigrants’ journeys to Canada forever changed their lives as well as the lives of those already living here. During this program, students will reflect on what it means to be “Canadian,” empathize with refugees with a suitcase activity, and consider the legacy of discriminatory immigration policies.
This program is best aligned to the Grade 4-6 and Grade 9 BC Social Studies curriculum but is relevant to learners of all ages.
SURVIVAL SKILLS ON THE SEA (M/O/V - 90 min)
Exploration and learning about the land have been part of most cultures across the world. Students will learn about different types of “exploration” and consider how it impacted people living on BC’s west coast. They will practice their own survival skills such as knot tying and navigation skills.
This program is best aligned to the Grade 4-6 BC Social Studies curriculum but can be adapted for an older audience.
Furs, Forts, and Fervour: The Impact and Legacy of Contact (M/O/V - 90 Min)
The Hudson’s Bay Company has had a profound impact on Indigenous Peoples, settlers, and the land. During this interactive school program, students will explore how society, economy, and environment are inherently integrated. They will have the opportunity to examine real otter and beaver pelts, a Hudson’s Bay blanket and other items important to the trade economy. Students will also consider the legacy that the HBC has on today’s society.
This program is best aligned to the Grade 4-9 BC Social Studies curriculum.
Fees
A non-refundable $10 deposit is required to reserve a group experience.
Option 1
In-Museum School Program
• $150 for up to 20 students
• 1 adult free per 5 students
• $7.50/additional participant to a maximum of 30 students
• Includes the cost of admission and self-guided activities
Option 2
Museum Visit to Your Classroom
• $200 for each class up to 30 students
• 10% off for one additional same-day class at the same location
Option 3
Virtual Field Trip (45 min)
• $100.00 per class up to 30 students
Museum Tots
*Museum Tots will be on break from April 8 – May 6 (inclusive)*
Museum Tots is geared toward children ages 3 – 5. Children will explore the museum world of learning through play, crafts, dance, and games.
The whole family is welcome to join. FREE with a Family Membership or General Admission. Drop-ins welcome!
Runs most Saturdays at 10:30 AM.
Upcoming Dates and TOPICS
| January 21 | Shipbuilding |
| January 28 | Salty Sea Science |
| February 4 | Sharks |
| February 11 | Merfolk |
| February 18 | Family |
| February 25 | Maritime Art |
| March 4 | Sailing |
| March 11 | Lighthouses |
| March 18 | Dive the Reef |
| March 25 | Spring into Spring |
| April 1 | Water Cycle |
Want a private Museum Tots program? Choose from one of the above topics or let us know your interests.
Option 1: In-Museum School Program
- $150 for up to 20 students
- 1 adult free per 5 students
- $7.50/additional participant
- Includes the cost of admission and self-guided activities
Option 2: Museum Visit to Your Classroom
• $200 for each class up to 30 students
• 10% off for each additional sequential class