Heritage School Programs

Support learning in and beyond the classroom with the New Westminster Museum’s education programs and resources. We offer guided School Programs, rentable Education Kits, Teacher Resources, and Professional Development opportunities designed to connect students and educators with local history, heritage, and diverse perspectives.

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Teen writing on paper at a long wooden bench at Westminster Pier Park.

School Programs

Heritage School Programs are led by experienced and knowledgeable educators. In each program students are encouraged to use their critical thinking skills to explore exhibitions and collections and dive deeper into curriculum-relevant themes.

All programs are 90 minutes in length, and available daily at 10:00am and 12:00pm. Each program can accommodate a maximum of 30 students per session.

Cost: 170.00 (GST included)
 

2026/27 School Programs Brochure

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Stories of the Samson V (Preschool - K)

Explore the Samson V through hands-on activities, stories, and observation while learning about boats, the Fraser River, and local history.

Heritage at Home (K - Gr. 2)

Explore Irving House through stories, discussion, and hands-on activities while learning about family, community, and how people lived in the past.

Mapping Stories (Gr. 4 - 6)

Use maps, archival records, and hands-on activities to explore how New Westminster’s people, places, and stories have shaped the community over time.

Welcoming New Westminster (Gr. 5 - 6)

Explore the histories and experiences of newcomer communities in New Westminster while considering immigration, identity, belonging, and the diverse stories that shape the city today.

Where in the World is Billy Miner? (Gr. 5 - 6)

Put your inquiry and detective skills to the test as you investigate primary and secondary sources to uncover the story of notorious train robber Billy Miner.

Roots of Reconciliation: Early New Westminster (Gr. 5 - 7)

Explore the complex histories that informed relationships between Indigenous Peoples and early settlers through inquiry-based activities that examine local history and invite reflection on the ongoing journey of reconciliation.

Education Kits

All Education Kits are available for a 3 week rental period and include thematic curriculum connected lesson plans, primary and secondary source materials, and more to keep students engaged and learning.

Education Kits are picked up and dropped off at the Anvil Centre (777 Columbia Street).

Cost: FREE ($150.00 refundable deposit required)

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What's Cooking? (K - Gr. 3)

Explore food traditions and cooking practices from around the world through artifacts, inquiry-based activities, and opportunities to share personal food stories.

Play Time! (Gr. 1 - 3)

Explore how toys, games, and the meaning of play have changed across generations and cultures through hands-on play and inquiry-based activities.

Reframed: Understanding Community Through Photos (Gr. 4 - 9)

Investigate historic photographs and cameras to explore how images shape our understanding of community, history, representation, and memory.

Stories from Yi Fao (Gr. 5 - 9)

Explore the vibrant history of New Westminster’s former Chinatown through artifacts, resources, and inquiry-based activities examining community, cultural identity, and the impacts of discrimination.

Teacher Resources

Our teacher resources support educators in bringing New Westminster’s history, heritage, and diverse community stories into the classroom. Featuring local collections, primary sources, and curriculum connections, these flexible resources encourage students to explore the past, ask questions, and make connections between local history and the world around them.

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Professional Development

Our professional development opportunities support educators in exploring new approaches to teaching local history, heritage, and diverse community stories. Half-day and full-day opportunities are available, with hands-on activities, discussion, and practical resources designed to build confidence and provide tools for the classroom. We can also work with you to tailor sessions to your group’s needs and interests.

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