Richmond Hill offers educational programs for students from preschool to Grade 12. Designed by experienced educators and recreation specialists with a focus on hands-on learning, our programs encourage students to explore and experience nature, history, and physical activity in a whole new way.
How to book your field trip
Contact information for each field trip is listed below in each section. When booking your field trip please provide the following information:
Program names and locations
Preferred dates and times
Class size
School address, phone number and your extension
Your first and last name
Best time to contact you
All pricing is subject to HST. Policies and program offerings are subject to change without notice.
Available Field Trips
Sports Dome Programs
Get your students out of the classroom and increase their physical literacy. Play a new sport that you may not have tried before. Depending on the size of your group, you will be able to pick a variety of sports for your students to rotate through.
Program Options:
Dodgeball
Flag Football
Handball
Lacrosse
Shuttle Baseball
Soccer
Speedminton
Team Building
Ultimate Frisbee
School Electives: Inquire about creating a customized program for your class.
Grades: 1 to 12 Class Size: 20+ participants (smaller groups are also available) Available: October to April Duration: Half day or full day Location: Richmond Green Sports Dome Pricing: Half day: $11.96 per person Full day: $17.97 per person
How to Book: Jen Cockburn Program Coordinator, Outdoor Recreation and Summer Camp 905-773-4630, ext. 2458 jen.cockburn@richmondhill.ca
Skating
Bring your students on the coolest field trip available year-round! Ice skating is a life-long activity that will bring high levels of physical fitness to your students. Your students can learn important lessons in meeting personal challenges and fulfilment.
Students must bring their own skates and helmets. Rental options are not available.
Grades: 1 to 12 Class Size: Maximum of 250 participants Available: September to June Duration: 2 hours (1 hour rental, access to change rooms 30 minutes before and after) Location: Elgin Barrow Arena, Bond Lake Arena, Ed Sackfield Arena, Elvis Stojko Arena, Tom Graham Arena Pricing: $124.66 * +HST *School rate pricing only between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
On-ice instructors will teach balance and gliding, forwards and backwards skating, and stopping and turning. Students will take part in games and fun skating activities! Find a session that works for your class schedule! Lessons are conducted during the school day. We have flexible times and locations across Richmond Hill.
Students will require: Skates and CSA approved helmets with protective cage facemasks
Book your class program today! For more information and bookings contact Paul Collins at 905-884-1368, ext. 6489 or paul.collins@richmondhill.ca.
Adventure Series
Richmond Hill's Adventure Series programs offer students a variety of outdoor experiences to spark their sense of exploration and discovery.
School Electives: Inquire about creating a customized program for your class.
Grades: 1 to 12 Class Size: 10+ participants Available: All year Duration: Half day or full day Location: Phyllis Rawlinson Park Pricing: Half day:$15.44 per person for groups of 20+ participants (plus tax) Full day: $20.59 per person for groups of 20+ participants (plus tax) For groups with less than 20 participants and/or multi-day programs, please call for pricing.
How to Book: Jen Cockburn Program Coordinator, Outdoor Recreation and Summer Camp 905-773-4630, ext. 2458 adventure@richmondhill.ca
Choose two to four of the below programs to make a full or half day field trip.
Bonfire You and your students will join staff around a fire while listening to and creating their own campfire stories and songs and roasting marshmallows! Ask about adding a Bonfire Lunch to your program!
Fire Skills
Students will expand their survival skills in this hands-on class, including how to build their own fires, in a safe and controlled environment.
Hiking Come discover the sights and sounds of Richmond Hill by foot! It's a whole new world out there, a world of wonder and mystery, for students to discover together. Ask about adding Map and Compass skills to this activity!
Orienteering This program challenges both the body and mind! Orienteering offers students an opportunity to hone their decision-making skills by using a map and compass for navigation. Ask about our Jr. and Sr. programs!
Outdoor Team Building What's there to do outside? A lot! In this program, students will participate in a variety of exciting outdoor activities focusing on team building, communication and leadership.
Shelter Building Students will develop their own survival skills in this class, including how to build their own shelters, while learning more about survival in the wilderness.
Archery This program introduces students to the fundamental skills of archery. Instructors will offer step-by-step guidance on proper techniques, while maintaining a safe and engaging environment. All equipment will be supplied. This activity counts as 2 activity blocks.
Electric Treasure Hunt (Geocaching)
This geocaching adventure teaches students the basics of orienteering, by showing them how to use a handheld GPS unit while searching for hidden treasure containers around the park. Students will work in teams to input and follow coordinates, solve puzzles and uncover hidden treasures.
Challenge Course and Rock Climbing
Richmond Hill's 22-element dynamic ropes course will challenge and excite your students, while giving them the confidence to try anything. Experienced instructors will keep students physically and emotionally engaged as they experience the different elements of the ropes course. The program provides team building, communication, motivation and climbing instruction.
School Electives: Inquire about creating a customized program for your class.
Grades: 3 and up (ages 8+) Class Size: 10+ participants Available: May to October Duration: 2 to 5 hour bookings Location: Eyer Wideman Youth Centre & Ropes Challenge Course Pricing: Please call for pricing. Ask about groups with less than 20 participants and/or multi-day programs.
How to Book: Jen Cockburn Program Coordinator, Outdoor Recreation and Summer Camp 905-773-4630, ext. 2458 adventure@richmondhill.ca
Heritage - Discovery Packages for Schools
Our Discovery Packages for Schools are designed to meet the requirements outlined in the Ontario curriculum. We are pleased to provide the Curriculum Connections and Objectives for each program to assist teachers with their planning.
Using clothing from the Richmond Hill Collections, students look at clothing from the 1800s and 1900s. They discuss the changes in clothing styles and its social impact. During the visit, students will have the opportunity to view Richmond Hill's Historical Collection with historical artifacts and art pieces.
Available: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays
Duration: 1.5 hours Fee: $132 for up to 20 people, $6.60 per additional person (14 and under) $149.60 for up to 20 people, $7.46 per additional person (15 and over)
Availability:Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays In-person option available only.
For King and Empire
Participants learn about the ever-changing roles and the dramatic impact on ordinary men and women of Canada, both during and after the Great War of 1914-1918. Local historical documents and artifacts are used for a better understanding. When Canada came of age, it attained international status as a nation entering the new postwar world. This program includes a walking tour of the heritage neighbourhood.
Location: Heritage Centre 19 Church Street North Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3E6
Grade: 10
Subject: History
Duration: 2.5 hours (optional 1.5 hours without walking tour)
Fee: $143 for up to 20 people, $7.15 per additional person (14 and under) $161.59 for up to 20 people, $8.08 per additional person (15 and over)
Availability: Daytime September to June on Mondays, Tuesday mornings and Thursdays In-person or virtual options available. Please indicate your preference when submitting the booking form.
Lights Around the World
Light and fire are a common element in many faiths, traditions and customs around the world. Students discover and examine a variety of cultural and traditional celebrations that are found in Canadian communities.
Location: Heritage Centre 19 Church Street North Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3E6
Grades: 1 and 2 Subject: Social Studies Duration: 1.5 hours Fee: $132 for up to 20 people, $6.60 per additional person (14 and under) Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday mornings and Thursdays In-person option available only.
Patterns for Living
Participants gain an understanding of early settlement land use and how geographical characteristics made Richmond Hill an attractive destination. This program includes a walking tour of the heritage neighbourhood.
Location: Heritage Centre 19 Church Street North Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3E6
Grades: 7 and 8 Subject: History and Geography
Duration: 2.5 hours Fee: $143 for up to 20 people, $7.15 per additional person (14 and under) Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday mornings and Thursdays In-person or virtual options available. Please indicate your preference when submitting the booking form.
Pencil and Paper
Students illustrate the principles of design, through analysis and creation of their own works of art. During the visit, students will have the opportunity to view Richmond Hill's Historical Collection with historical artifacts and art pieces.
Grades: 3 to 8 Subject: Art Duration: 1.5 hours Fee: $132 for up to 20 people, $6.60 per additional person (14 and under) Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday mornings and Thursdays
Trade and Industry
Students learn about Canada’s growth from the fur trade into one of the world’s most important provider of natural resources. Using local historical documents and artifacts, students examine how trade and industry shaped the country from early First Nations to the present day. This program includes a walking tour of the heritage neighbourhood.
Location: Heritage Centre 19 Church Street North Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3E6
Grades: 4 to 6 Subject: Social Studies Duration: 3 hours Fee: $154 for up to 20 people, $7.70 per additional person (14 and under) Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays In-person or virtual options available. Please indicate your preference when submitting the booking form.
Traveller's Trunk
Ontario has always been a destination for newcomers who bring their skills and spirit of adventure to their new land. Students explore our early and recent settlers to this region and what they may have brought with them. This program includes a walking tour of the heritage neighbourhood.
Location: Heritage Centre 19 Church Street North Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3E6
Grades: 3 and 6 Subject: Social Studies Duration: 2.5 hours (Optional 1.5 hours without walking tour) Fee: $143 for up to 20 people, $7.15 per additional person (14 and under) Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday mornings and Thursdays
Archaeology Discovery Kits
Archaeology to Go!
Take advantage of our hands-on Discovery Kits. Teachers and group leaders may rent Discovery Kits to enhance classroom and/or group presentations.
Discovery Kits contain a number of prehistoric and historic artifacts that students can handle in order to gain a better understanding of these objects. Background material about Richmond Hill's archaeological history and other general information about how these kits will work best for your group is also included.
Duration: 1 week minimum to 2 week maximum rental
Pick Up/Drop Off Location: Richmond Hill Operations Centre 1200 Elign Mills Road East Richmond Hill, ON L4C 1M4 Monday to Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Discover your community’s heritage! We offer a number of tour packages that will allow your group to have a private tour of the Heritage Centre galleries or the Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory. Enjoy some fresh air, exercise and walk through a historic neighbourhood!
Learn about Richmond Hill's unique heritage viewing our recently renovated galleries, Learn about this 1840s regency-style house and its original owner, Amos Wright. There will be opportunities to ask questions, time for independent gallery viewing.
Location: Heritage Centre 19 Church Street North Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3E6
Ages: 7 years and up Duration: 1 hour Fee: $58.96 for up to 20 people, $2.95 per additional person plus HST Availability: Year-round daytime/early evening
Discovery Tour: Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory (RHDDO)
Come on a tour of the Administration Building to learn about the history of the land and see the architectural features of this Beaux-Arts style building. This tour includes the opportunity to see the Observatory's 74-inch telescope. Note, this tour is a historical focus of the RHDDO site and does not include astronomy presentations or a demonstration of the 74” telescope.
Ages: 7 years and up Duration: 1 hour Fee: $92.40 for up to 20 people, $2.95 per additional person plus HST Availability: Year-round daytime/early evening
Discovery Tour: Guided Neighbourhood Walks
Walk through 200 years of history in Richmond Hill's historical neighbourhoods and explore how the patterns of settlement have shaped this original crossroad of human occupation.
Choose from the following tours:
Church Street and the Bright Lights of Yonge Street
Yonge Street West - The Village Backstreets
Gormley West - Heritage District
Mill Pond
Yonge Street North and beyond
Ages: 7 years and up Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours Fee: $58.96 for up to 20 people, $2.95 per additional person plus HST Availability: Year-round daytime/early evening
Heritage - Discovery Tour and Activity Packages
A great outing for your Guide and Scout groups. These programs can also be adapted for ESL classes, community groups or just a get together with friends.
Explore Richmond Hill's dairy industry and learn to churn butter the old-fashioned way! Participants also create a craft.
Just Dyeing to Know
This hands-on activity places emphasis on 19th Century wool and yarn production. Participants investigate how different petals, leaves and bark can create fabric dyes.
The Canadian Community
Learn about the importance of communities, while exploring our early and current Richmond Hill Community. Also learn about the national and provincial symbols of Canada, complete a workbook and create a craft.
Location: Heritage Centre 19 Church Street North Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3E6
Ages: 5 to 9 Duration: 1.5 hours Fee: $90.09 for up to 12 people, $7.50 per additional person (14 and under)
$101.80 for up to 12 people, $8.48 per additional person (15 and over)
Available: Year-round daytime, evenings
Heritage - Discovery Tour and Tea Package
Enjoy a look at the old village and identify homes and/or businesses of significance in the development of the City. Groups can choose from one of our Yonge Street tours. The walking tour is approximately 1.5 followed by a relaxing time in the garden view room or patio enjoying a traditional tea service.
Choose from the following tours:
Church Street and the Bright Lights of Yonge Street
Duration: 3 hours Fee: $309.55 for up to 12 people, $20.64 per additional person plus HST Available: Year-round. Daytime, early evenings and weekends
Heritage - Outreach and Virtual Presentations (HOP)
“We’ve got a Story to Tell.” Your group will enjoy a sit-down visual presentation to learn about personalities, places and events integral to the history of Richmond Hill. We can deliver this presentation in-person at your location or virtually.
Rose Growing in Richmond Hill – A History of a Blooming Important Industry In the early 20th century, Richmond Hill was known as the "rose capital" of Canada. "We've Got a Story to Tell" talks about the history of this blooming important industry. Join us for this this visual presentation exploring this industry and the several large Greenhouse companies that put Richmond Hill on the map.
Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory- A History The Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory (DDO) has been a centre for astronomical research in Canada and a well-known attraction since its opening on May 31, 1935. Did you know this site was a family farm throughout the 19th century? "We've We've Got a Story to Tell" talks about the people that played an instrumental role in the development of the property. Join us for this visual presentation to learn about the history of the land and how it became the DDO.
Growing Up Yonge - Part One the 19th Century Lieutenant-Governor John Graves Simcoe officially established Yonge Street in the 1790s. Envisioned as a military road from the Town of York (now Toronto) to Holland Landing, Yonge Street opened up the northern part of York County for settlement—and positioned Richmond Hill as an essential stopping point along the two-day journey. Join us for part one of this two-part visual presentation illustrating the growth during the 19th century and the people that were influential in the development of Richmond Hill’s “Main Street”.
Growing Up Yonge – Part Two the 20th Century In the second part of "Growing Up Yonge", we see the evolution of transportation, industry and trade and population growth. Join us for part two of this two-part visual presentation illustrating the role Yonge Street played in the 20th century and how this "main street" shaped the village of Richmond Hill.
Heritage Designation – Preserving our Community Designation of heritage properties is a way of publically acknowledging a property’s cultural heritage value to a community. Designation helps to ensure the conservation of these important places for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations. Join us as we explore the designation process referencing some of the City’s designated treasures.
Richmond Hill’s Treasures – Behind the Scenes of a Museum Collection Richmond Hill possesses over 10,000 artifacts related to the City’s social, political and economic history. They are held in public trust for the education and enjoyment of City residents. Join us as we take you behind the scenes to learn about the process of collecting the artifacts while exploring the broader activities involved in museum collecting.
Duration: 1.5 hours
Fee: In-Person at your site: $134.77 for up to 20 people, $153.65 for up to 50 people, $178.65 for up to 100 people, $203.65 for up to 150 people (HST applicable) Virtual: $107.21 per presentation.
Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts (RHCPA)
For the 2023-24 Educational Series at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts, we have thoughtfully chosen 9 shows to reflect the stories and experiences of our community and from around the world, each with an Ontario Curriculum connection for students from Pre-K through Grade 12.
Available shows:
Ridge – Immerse in our own history using music and storytelling - students will have the opportunity to connect on many levels with the personal experiences of Canadians who sacrificed everything. For Gr. 6+
The Money Tree - To coincide with Financial Literacy Month, students will experience a common yet complicated dilemma that many families face, done on a level that we can all understand.
It’s Okay to be Different - A brand-new performance from the fantastic Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia. If you enjoyed Rainbow Fish and Guess How Much I Love You, this will be an easy choice for your young group. For K-Gr. 3
Celebrate - One of our most popular shows from 2019 is back! Get ready to celebrate with Chris and his musicians from around the world. This show is an on-your-feet, clap and sing-along adventure! For Pre K-Gr. 3
iLL-Abilities - Watch in awe at the skills the dancers demonstrate, and be even more in awe at their amazing message of positivity. This is a great opportunity to see this world class dance crew perform. For all ages.
Teasing Gravity - A perfect opportunity to introduce your students to the world of Contemporary Dance. This show will be followed by a Q&A where students will have the opportunity to learn more about what they just experienced. For Gr. 3 +
Outside - This show will engage students with the issues that face them every day. We have first-hand experienced how impactful and important this show is to student audiences and beyond. For Gr. 5+
The Jungle Book - This classic story comes to life in a multimedia presentation that will open your mind to how storytelling and technology can work together. For all ages.
Lig and Bittle - A classic Odd Couple tale for the younger set from a notable Canadian Theatre company. For Pre K- Gr. 3
Pricing: $15 per student. Each school receives two complimentary adult tickets for every 10 students booked. There is a $5 handling fee on all orders.
To Book: Visit our online booking form to request tickets. This form is for requests and does not guarantee tickets. Tickets are only confirmed once an invoice is sent.
Educational Outreach
The RHCPA Education Program provides opportunities for people of all ages to engage in the performing art, taking its theatre programs off the stage and into your classroom.
Educators, Teachers, and Students can attend a number of educational and entertaining shows specifically programmed to meet curriculum needs throughout the school year. Pre- and Post- Show workshops are available.
Have a Teaching Artist visit your classroom, camp program, or after school activity for a fun Intensive workshop in Intro to Drama, Intro to Musical Theatre, Hip Hop Dance, Improv, or Stage Combat. We'll be happy to work with you to find a program that best suits your needs.
Participate in a number of our daytime, after-school, and weekend programs. From Tots to 55+, there is a performing arts program for everyone. Looking for summer fun? The RHCPA has theatre camp options from 4 years old to 16 years old. All participants get a chance to shine under the spotlight.
Looking to bring your youth group or school to the RHDDO?
We will engage stargazers and science enthusiasts in our specialized educational programs. If you are looking for history, enjoy a tour of this National Historic Site.
Please Note: Plan early! Our Group and Private Packages are processed Mondays to Fridays 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Staff will respond to your request within five business days. Group and Private permits take up to 10 business days to process.
RHDDO Astronomy Experience for School Groups
Important Information: The Observatory Dome/74” telescope is currently undergoing restoration from September 12 to December 31, 2024 and will not be available for packages during this time period. This package has been redesigned to work around the Dome closure with alternate interactive activities with the RHDDO Astronomers.
Our Astronomy Experience program has been designed to meet Ontario Curriculum requirements for Grades 3, 6, 9 and 12, however we can tailor the program content for students from Senior Kindergarten through Grade 12. This package is designed to provide an introduction to astronomy or astronomy content pertaining to specific topics of interest. Your visit will also include a visit to see and learn about the RHDDO’s 74” telescope. Students will leave the program with a craft project or handout as appropriate for the age group.
Ages: 5 years and up
Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
Fee:
Base Package $306.66 for up to 20 people, $15.33 per additional person (HST applicable) for a maximum of 58 people
One(1) Adult/Teacher admitted free for every 10 Students/Children
Availability: Daytime Monday to Friday, September to June
Important Information: The Observatory Dome/74” telescope is currently undergoing restoration from September 12 to December 31, 2024 and will not be available for packages during this time period. This package has been redesigned to work around the Dome closure with alternate interactive activities with the RHDDO Astronomers.
A great opportunity for groups, families or astronomy buffs looking for a private program at the RHDDO. This package is designed to provide an introduction to astronomy or astronomy content pertaining to specific topics of interest. Your visit will include an informative presentation and a visit to see and learn about the RHDDO’s 74” telescope. If your booking occurs in the evening, your package will include outdoor telescope viewing with portable telescopes (weather dependent).
Ages: 7 years and up Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours Fee: Base Package $306.66 for 1 to 20 people, $15.33 per additional person (HST applicable) for a maximum of 58 people
RHDDO Astronomy Experience for Youth Services Groups (e.g. Girl Guides, Scouts Canada)
Important Information: The Observatory Dome/74” telescope is currently undergoing restoration from September 12 to December 31, 2024 and will not be available for packages during this time period. This package has been redesigned to work around the Dome closure with alternate interactive activities with the RHDDO Astronomers.
Programs are tailored to satisfy the merit badge requirements of Astronomy, Space Science and astronomy-related outdoor components for each age group. Your visit will include an informative presentation on an introduction to astronomy, outdoor telescope viewing (weather dependant) with portable telescopes and a visit to see the RHDDO’s 74” telescope.
Please Note: There is no viewing from the RHDDO’s 74” telescope included in this program. Students will leave the program with a craft project or handout as appropriate for the age group.
Ages: 5 years and up
Duration: 1 - 1.5 hours Fee:
Base Package $227.14 for up to 20 people, $11.45 per additional person (HST applicable as required) for a maximum of 58 people
One (1) Adult/Teacher admitted free for every 10 Children
Important Information: The Observatory Dome/74” telescope is currently undergoing restoration from September 12 to December 31, 2024 and will not be available for packages during this time period. This package has been redesigned to work around the Dome closure with alternate interactive activities with the RHDDO Astronomers.
Visit the Observatory and learn about the historic 74” telescope! Discover how astronomers use this equipment to view the night sky. Enjoy viewing with the 74” and/or portable telescopes (weather dependent). A great opportunity to ask a RHDDO Astronomer questions about what they know and what they are discovering. A perfect package for a family outing or date night.
Ages: 7 years and up Duration: 1 hour Fee: Base Package $227.14 for 1 to 20 people, $11.45 per additional person (HST applicable as required) for a maximum of 20 people
Availability: Evenings, Year-round (Not available from September 16 – December 2024)
Your group can enjoy a virtual presentation from home, school or wherever you meet. Explore breaking news from space and current research into what lies beyond our home planet! We’ll take a virtual tour of the RHDDO, hear from a speaker and a chance to ask questions about what they know and what they’re discovering. You can choose an introduction to Astronomy or have content tailored to provide specific topics of interest for your group.
A RHDDO Astronomer will answer your questions about the observatory, astronomy and space, telescopes, and the motions of the sky using powerful astronomy software and eye-catching visuals! This is a great opportunity for students working on projects to get one on one support. When requesting this package, please indicate specific topics that you would like to discuss. This is a virtual presentation to enjoy remotely from home, school or wherever you meet.
Ages: All ages Fee: $31.37 for 30 minutes Availability: Year-round
Come on a tour of the Administration Building to learn about the history of the land and see the architectural features of this Beaux-Arts style building. This tour includes the opportunity to see the Observatory's 74-inch telescope. Note, this tour is a historical focus of the RHDDO site and does not include astronomy presentations or a demonstration of the 74” telescope.
Ages: 7 years and up Fee: $92.40 for up to 20 people, $2.95 per additional person Availability: Daytime/Early Evening, Year-round
*Please Note: As the Observatory and Administration Buildings are historic buildings, they do not meet existing accessibility standards. Access to both buildings is by stairs only. Washrooms and program rooms are located in the basement and on the second floor of the Administration Building and are accessible only by stairs. Both the Administration Building and the Observatory do not have elevators.
Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory - A History Presentation
The Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory (RHDDO) has been a centre for astronomical research in Canada and a well-known attraction since its opening on May 31, 1935. But did you know this site was a family farm throughout the 19th century and "We've Got a Story to Tell" about the people that played an instrumental role in the development of the property. Join us for this visual presentation to learn about the history of the land and how it became the RHDDO. We can deliver this presentation in-person at your location or virtually.
Duration: 1-1.5 hours Fee: In-Person: $134.77 for up to 20 people, $153.65 for up to 50 people, $178.65 for up to 100 people, $203.65 for up to 150 people (HST applicable) Virtual: $107.21 per presentation. (HST applicable) Availability: Daytime/Evening, Year-round
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