Educational Programs
Let us help bring history to life for your students or group - because the past is best experience in person
At the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site, we bring Ontario's rich past to life through immersive, curriculum-connected programs designed for students and educators.
Whether you're stepping into the fur trade era, exploring pioneer life, or learning about industrialization in Northern Ontario, our historic setting offers a unique hands-on learning experience you won't find in a classroom.
Educational Programs
Our school programs are tailored to meet Ontario Curriculum expectations and include interactive, age-appropriate activities. Each session is led by trained interpreters in period costume who guide students through historical experiences in our restored 19th-century buildings.
Curriculum Programs Offered
Long Ago...
Students investigate the connection between familiar nursery rhymes and the daily lives of the Ermatinger family with a focus on hands-on learning.
Grade: Kindergarten - Grade 2
Program Length: 2 hours
Long Ago: A pioneer Child’s Summer Escapade
This program is similar to "Long Ago..." with the addition of an outdoor play opportunity focused on pioneer games. This is a great program for an end of year trip!
Grades: Kindergarten-grade 2
Program Length: 2 hours
Yuletide Traditions: A Pioneer Christmas
Students will explore some pioneer yuletide traditions that may have been celebrated by the Ermatingers and how traditions may have continued or changed to this day.
Grade: 2
Program Length: 2 hours
Pioneer Living: A Day in the Life of a Pioneer Child
Students will investigate chores and responsibilities of the Ermatinger children in the early 1800s. They will take part in hands-on activities and are encouraged to share their learning with their class after returning to school.
Grade: 3
Program Length: 2 hours, or 3 hours with lunch
A Pioneer Summer Escapade
Students will explore the lives of the Ermatingers (circa 1812) and F.H. Clergue (circa 1890s) through touring their homes, hands-on activities, and outdoor games and activities. This program is adapted for each grade level. This is a great program for an end of year trip!
Grades: 3-6
Program Length: 2 hours
First Peoples and European Explorers
Students will use exhibits and hands-on activities to learn about the Indigenous people of Baawating pre-contact. They will then participate in hands-on activities to experience different aspects of every day life for Indigenous people and early European settlers.
Grades: 4-6
Program length: 2 hours
Why Choose Us?
Authentic 1800s Buildings
National Historic Site with genuine heritage structures that provide an authentic glimpse into 19th-century life and learning.
Curriculum-Connected Learning
Programs aligned with Ontario Curriculum expectations, led by knowledgeable education specialists who bring history to life for students of all ages.
Hands-On & Accessible
Memorable, interactive educational experiences in a welcoming, accessible environment that's been endorsed by local school boards.
