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Visitors at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa observing a monument.

Plan a school visit

The Canadian War Museum, your museum of military history, offers a wide range of learning opportunities that will fascinate students of all levels. Through historical artifacts, personal stories, artwork, photographs and interactive presentations, visiting the Museum helps students discover Canada’s rich military history.

The Canadian War Museum is a destination of choice for students and adults travelling in groups. We offer a wide range of services, experiences and educational resources tailored for groups of 15 or more.


On-site school programs

Canadian War Museum programs

A guide with students

Hands-On History: Curating Canada’s First World War Story

Step into the role of a museum curator and explore the stories behind objects tied to the Canadian experience of the First World War. In this hands-on program, students will investigate key themes such as identity, sacrifice, remembrance and resilience through objects and primary sources.

A guide with students

Exploring Military History Through Art: Women's Perspectives

Explore the untold stories of Canadian women in war through powerful artworks and objects. From nurses and volunteers to artists and soldiers, students will discover how women shaped — and were shaped by — conflict.


Guided tours

These engaging 45-minute guided tours cover important themes and exhibition highlights.

Guided tour – Gallery 3: The Second World War

This tour examines how Canada’s fight against dictatorships transformed the country. It encompasses the home front, D-Day, the Italian Campaign and the war at sea and in the air.

Grades:
Ontario – Grade 10 to 12
Quebec – Secondary IV to V
Dates: Every day
Start time: 9:15 a.m., 10:15 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:15 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 3:45 p.m.
Duration: 45 minutes
Group size: 25 (students and teachers)
Location: Gallery 3

Guided tour – Museum Highlights

This tour will offer first-time visitors an overview of our gallery spaces and will focus on star artifacts. You will also discover surprising facts about our world-renowned architecture.

Grades:
Ontario – All levels
Quebec – All levels
Dates: Every day
Start time: 9:15 a.m., 10:15 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:15 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 3:45 p.m.
Duration: 45 minutes
Group size: 25 (students and teachers)
Location: Museum Galleries

Guided tour – Hidden Treasures

This tour will feature lesser-known artifacts with fascinating stories. A great option for repeat visitors or those looking for an alternative experience!

Grades:
Ontario – All levels
Quebec – All levels
Dates: Every day
Start time: 9:15 a.m., 10:15 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:15 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 3:45 p.m.
Duration: 45 minutes
Group size: 25 (students and teachers)
Location: Museum Galleries

Students take a guided tour through the Museum

Activity sheets

Using these worksheets, students take a self-guided tour. They engage in various activities and work together in small groups to find the answers to thought-provoking questions.