Background
The British Columbia Heritage Fairs Program developed out of an initiative of the Historica Foundation to promote the study of history and heritage within Canada. Students from grades four to nine (although in BC students from grade ten have been invited to participate) have been encouraged for years to examine one’s own family connections and stories, as well as to look at historical figures and events that have contributed much to the development of Canada. Students are given an opportunity to showcase their research projects in a public setting where they can present their findings to a larger audience.
This project approach to learning that the BC Heritage Fairs Program advocates enhances literacy skills emphasizing reading, writing, and communication skills. It supports cross-curricular learning outcomes set out by the Ministry of Education as well as promoting active citizenship by providing the opportunity to celebrate diversity in culture and heritage within ones community. Students are encouraged to take part in the BC Heritage Fairs Program through their classroom, their school or independently. They follow a research path and present the results of their research first at the class/school level and then, if chosen, to the community at the Regional Fair in their particular area. Although more than one student can participate on one project, only one student can travel with the project if the project is chosen for the Provincial Fair. Each Regional Fair Site Coordinator and Committee has developed criteria for participation and should be contacted prior to beginning a project.
The British Columbia Heritage Fairs Society would like to gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, the Ministry of Education and the Provincial Capital Commission. Their financial support has allowed the organization of the second BC Provincial Heritage Fair to be held in Victoria, BC from June 29th to July 3rd, 2009. Being able to bring students from all areas of BC to one local point where they may share in celebrating their accomplishments and their interests in heritage continues to be a focal point of the Society.
