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School + Group Programs

Assiniboine Park and Zoo educational programs connect people with nature and inspire them to be environmental stewards.

Assiniboine Park offers curriculum-linked, interdisciplinary programs for students in Pre-K through Grade 12. Our early years programs encourage children to connect with the amazing diversity found in nature and progress into more action-based classes at the middle and senior year’s level. All programs incorporate learning objectives in science with connections to arts, culture, language, social studies and others. Many programs include hands-on activities and different styles of learning are encouraged through story, music, verbal presentations, tours and team work.

Programs are available year-round and run rain, shine, or snow!
All programs, regardless of location, include Zoo admission.

Please review the information below, then contact us to book your visit. For additional group options, scroll down the page.

  

   
group of kids at the Zoo

Ready?

Review this important info...

  • Rates: 60 + 90 Minute Education Program
    Student (K - 12) Rate $8.75 + GST
    Child Care Rate $8.75 + GST
    Extra Chaperone Rate      $12.00 + GST

    One chaperone per 10 students (1:10) is included free of charge.
    Extra chaperones (above the 1:10 ratio) are $12/adult + GST.
  • Rates: 120 Minute Education Program
    Student (K - 12) Rate $10.00 + GST
    Child Care Rate  $10.00 + GST
    Extra Chaperone Rate       $12.00 + GST

    One chaperone per 10 students (1:10) is included free of charge.
    Extra chaperones (above the 1:10 ratio) are $12/adult + GST.
  • Booking Policies

    • All programs are subject to a minimum charge of $150 + GST, regardless of the number of participants. 
    • Minimum charge of $150 + GST must be sent within 30 days of booking your program.
    • Groups who fail to pay their deposit in a timely manner will lose their time slot.
    • An invoice for the balance owing will be emailed within one week following your program.
    • Payments can be made with cash, credit card or cheque to “Assiniboine Park Conservancy."
    • All prices are subject to change.

    Space is limited and spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. To ensure availability, please contact us at least 2 - 4 weeks in advance for non-peak months and 2 months in advance for the peak months of April, May and June.


  • Cancellation Policy

    If you need to cancel your program, please do so as soon as possible by contacting our Education Department at education@assinboinepark.ca or call 204-927-6070. We will work with you to find another date or time that is available.

    Refunds:
    • Cancellations made 15+ business days in advance = full refund
    • Cancellations made 11 - 14 business days in advance = partial refund. Cancellation is subject to a $35 + GST administrative fee.
    • Cancellations made 10 or less business days in advance = no refund.

    We reserve the right to cancel or reschedule any program.
    A full refund will be issued if the Education Department cancels your tour or program.

  • Weather Policy
    All programs run rain, snow or shine, with the exception of severe weather conditions (e.g. thunderstorms, high wind-chills, unsafe travel conditions, school closures). In the event of an unstable weather forecast, please contact us about possible cancellations on the day of your program.
  • Good Behaviour Policy
    • Groups visiting the Zoo must respect and follow the Zoo rules.
    • Please be kind to the Park and Zoo. Do not litter. Use the available garbage and recycling cans. 
    • Class and group behaviour is the responsibility of chaperones NOT Assiniboine Park Conservancy’s Program Instructors.
    • We reserve the right to ask a group that is disruptive, or presents a danger to themselves or others, to leave the Zoo without compensation.
  • Chaperones

    • Chaperones must be responsible adults (i.e. teacher, volunteer, or parent).
    • Chaperones provide safety and help guide your students’ educational experience at Assiniboine Park and Zoo and should take an active role in supervision.
    • Class and group behaviour is the responsibility of chaperones NOT Assiniboine Park Conservancy’s Education Coordinators.

    One chaperone per 10 students (1:10) is included free of charge.
    Extra chaperones (above the 1:10 ratio) are $12/adult + GST.

    We encourage you to download and share the form below with your chaperones.

    Chaperone Checklist

  • Field Trip Tips

    IF A STUDENT IS LOST OR INJURED, PLEASE NOTIFY ANY STAFF MEMBER OR VOLUNTEER. THEY WILL IMMEDIATELY ALERT SECURITY.

    GENERAL INFORMATION:
    •  ALL ZOO VISITORS are to arrive at the Zoo entrance located at 2595 Roblin Blvd. Buses are to park at the Zoo overflow parking lot located inside the Park on the East side of the Zoo (view maps). Your group can exit through the former East Gate entrance however re-entry is not allowed at this location. For re-entry to the Zoo you must enter at the Zoo entrance (2595 Roblin Blvd).
    •  For Guided Programs led by our Education Coordinators, please bring the confirmation sheet that has been emailed to you in advance of your visit.
    •  We strongly encourage all visitors to bring filled water bottles.
    •  Please dress appropriately for your visit. We recommend visitors wear weather-appropriate clothing and protection from the elements.
    •  We do not offer lockers or storage and are not responsible for visitors’ personal belongings.
    •  Outside food is not allowed in Tundra Grill. Food can be purchased in the restaurant and at various concessions located within the Zoo.
    •  Picnic tables can be found throughout the Zoo. There are covered eating spaces available in the Zoo, Nature Playground and Duck Pond.

    PAYMENT:
    •  FOR SELF-GUIDED VISITS: For payment, we ask that you bring a credit card, debit card, cash or cheque. We will only accept business cheques for self-guided groups that book their Zoo visit in advance. Any self-guided groups that do not pre-book must pay by Visa, MasterCard, cash or debit card.
    •  FOR GUIDED PROGRAMS (BOOKED IN ADVANCE & LED BY OUR EDUCATION COORDINATORS): An invoice will be emailed to you after your visit (based on numbers in attendance).

  • Program Locations

    Qualico Family Centre | 330 Assiniboine Park Drive
    Please meet your instructor in the lobby of the Qualico Family Centre located next to the Riley Family Duck Pond. 

    Assiniboine Park Zoo | 2595 Roblin Boulevard
    Please meet your instructor at the Zoo Entrance at 2595 Roblin Boulevard. A Program Instructor will meet you and guide you to your program.

    The following items are not allowed in The Pavilion or at the Zoo: bikes, skateboards, rollerblades and scooters, flying discs, balls, balloons or pets. Please leave these items at home or enjoy them elsewhere in the Park.

  • Information for Scouts + Guides

    Join us for interactive programs and work toward achieving your badges at Assiniboine Park and Zoo. Our programs can be tailored for Scouts and Guides at all levels. To get started, contact us at education@assiniboinepark.ca or call 204 927 6070.

    Education Programs Badge Connections

  • Field Trip Funding Program (Schools + Child Care Centres)
    As part of our mandate to create accessible programming, we have secured funding to assist qualifying Manitoba schools and child care centres with program fees. Some schools and child care centres may also qualify for a subsidy for a portion of their transportation costs to Assiniboine Park and Zoo. 
     
    If your class or child care centre is in need of field trip financial assistance and may be considered rural or low socio-economic school/centre, please fill the appropriate application from below:

    Field Trip Funding Program - Application Form - Child Care Centres

    Field Trip Funding Program - Application Form - Schools

Get Set?

Browse by age group...

  • NEW! Day Cares and Day Camps - Bugs and Beyond

    This program is perfect for day care centres looking for guided field trips at the Zoo. Program fee: $8.75 / student + GST

    Bugs and Beyond

    Grades K to 6 | 60 minutes | Assiniboine Park Zoo
    Program and activities will be tailored to the age of participants.


    To many people bugs are a nuisance, pest, or even scary.  In Bugs and Beyond your group will learn about the amazing diversity in the invertebrate kingdom, and just how important these amazing creatures are to our very survival. After a tour through the Assiniboine Park Zoo's Xtreme BUGS exhibit, the group will participate in a "Bug Biathlon" activity where we will race to collect pollen in the Haulin' Pollen race, and the millipede marathon.


  • Pre-School

    The ABC's of Zoos

    Nursery / Kindergarten | 60 minutes | Assiniboine Park Zoo

    Groups will discover the animals of the Assiniboine Park Zoo by working through the alphabet during a fun, interactive classroom session followed by a guided tour for “little feet” through Toucan Ridge.

    Learning Outcomes: Kindergarten Science

    The ABC's of Trees

    Nursery / Kindergarten | 60 minutes | Qualico Family Centre

    Learn about the seasonal tree cycle while exploring the forest in Assiniboine Park. We’ll investigate what our trees have in common and what makes them unique. Together, we will develop our observation skills, using all of our senses as we search for clues to find out who uses our trees. We will also explore all the wonderful ways trees add value to our everyday lives.

    Learning Outcomes: Kindergarten Science

  • Elementary

    Ambassador Animal Programs

    Grades 1 to 6 | 60 minutes | Assiniboine Park Zoo

    Join us for an up close and personal encounter with our Animal Handler/Educator and a selection of three to five of our ambassador animals. Each workshop is broken up into short segments that have participants using all their senses. Choose from the following options:

    • Animal Essentials (Gr. 1)
    • Animal Lifecycles (Gr. 2)
    • Homes and Habitats (Gr. 3 & 4)
    • Creature Climates (Gr. 5 & 6)

    Animal Life Cycles

    Grade 2 | 90 minutes | Assiniboine Park Zoo

    Learn about the life cycles of insects, birds, amphibians, spiders, fish, reptiles and mammals. Students will then tour through the Zoo to look at the animals' daily life. This is eggciting science!

    Learning Outcomes: Grade 2 Science

    Arctic Ecology

    Grades 4 to 6 | 90 minutes | Assiniboine Park Zoo

    Maximum 30 students

    Discover what it means to be an Arctic ecologist. Students will discover the growing field of Arctic ecology through an active exploration of the Journey to Churchill exhibit. 

    Learning Outcomes: Grades 4 - 6 Science

    Awesome Adaptations

    Grades 1 to 8 | 90 minutes | Assiniboine Park Zoo

    How do animals survive the heat and rain of the tropics or the cold winters in the Arctic tundra? Students will learn how animals survive in their habitat and study specific characteristics of animals here at the Zoo through age appropriate activities! Choose from Arctic or Tropical Adaptations.

    Learning Outcomes: Grade 1 - 8 Science

    Bats

    Grades 2 to 4 | 90 minutes | Assiniboine Park Zoo

    Discover the fascinating and often misunderstood lives of the amazing creatures of the night. We will tour the Kinsmen Discovery Centre to learn about megabats and microbats!

    Learning Outcomes: Grades 2 and 4 Science

    Creature Classification

    Grade 1 | 90 minutes | Assiniboine Park Zoo

    Some animals have limbs and lungs. Others have fins and gills. Discover the differences and similarities among various animal groups by examining a selection of 'biofacts' and touring a section of the Zoo.

    Learning Outcomes: Grade 1 Science

    Gakina Ndinawemaaganag : Kakinow Niwahkomakanak  (All My Relations)

    Grade 4, 5 & 6 | 90 minutes | Assiniboine Park Zoo

    First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people of Manitoba have distinct cultures connected by an intimate relationship with animals and the land. In this tour-based program, learn how all nature is inter-connected through Indigenous perspectives and explore how we can all be better stewards of the land. 

    Learning Outcomes: Grade 4 – 6 Social Studies, Grade 4 – 6 Aboriginal Languages and Culture, Grade 4 and 6 Science

    Nature Photography

    Grades 3 to 8 | 90 minutes | Assiniboine Park OR Zoo

    Photography is a great way to connect with nature and take a closer look at the environment around you. Discover the Zoo through the lens of a camera and learn basic techniques that will help you take great outdoor photographs. Cameras are provided. This program is available September through April in the Zoo and year-round in the Park. Maximum 30 students

    Learning Outcomes: Grade 3 - 8 Social Studies and Art

    North American Animal Stories

    Grades 1 to 6 | 90 minutes | Assiniboine Park Zoo

    Aboriginal people use storytelling as means of entertainment but also as a way of passing important information from one generation to another. Through storytelling, our educators will introduce participants to our indigenous animals and their importance to Aboriginal beliefs, values and stories.

    Learning Outcomes: Grades 1, 2, 4 and 6 Language Arts and Social Studies

    Polar Bears

    Grades 1 to 6 | 90 minutes | Assiniboine Park Zoo

    Learn the remarkable stories behind the Assiniboine Park Zoo’s polar bears! Tour the Zoo's Journey to Churchill exhibit and discover how bears have adapted to survive in their habitat. Students will also explore the unique and sometimes challenging relationship between people and bears encounter in the town of Churchill and the western Hudson Bay.

    Learning Outcomes: Grade 1, 2, 4 & 6 Science, Grade 3 Social Studies

    PURRfect Predators: Big Cats

    Grades 3 to 7 | 90 minutes | Assiniboine Park Zoo

    Learn about the distinct characteristics of tigers and leopards and compare their vocalizations to smaller cats such as cougars and lynx. Find out why two-thirds of the world’s cats are endangered and learn what Assiniboine Park Zoo is doing to conserve them.

    Learning Outcomes: Grade 4 and 6 Science  

    Poetry in the Park

    Grades 5 and 6 | 90 minutes | Qualico Family Centre

    Let the gardens and forests of Assiniboine Park inspire you! We will guide students through a creative writing process that ends with a group poetry reading. Program includes an outdoor activity.

    Learning Outcomes: Grade 6 Language Arts

    A River Runs Through It

    Grades 3 to 5 | 90 minutes | Assiniboine Park

    The riparian forest is very special and important habitat to our local rivers, plants, animals and people. Students will unearth the ecological secrets of the riparian forest through water quality investigations, forest walks, photography, and sensory activities designed to enhance their appreciation and understanding of forests. This program runs April through early November, weather permitting. Sponsored in part by the RBC Water Wise Garden Program.

    Learning Outcomes: Grades 3, 4 and 5 Social Studies; Grade 3 Science

    The Dirt on Soil

    Grade 3 to 4 | 90 minutes | Qualico Family Centre

    Did you know a single teaspoon of dirt contains more than a billion microorganisms, that help sustain plant and animal life? This program delves into the nitty-gritty of dirt, its environmental value, and the conservation of one of the earth’s most precious resources - our soil.

    Learning Outcomes: Grade 3 Science; Grade 4 Social Science

  • Middle + Senior Years

    Arctic Field Research: Studying & Managing Populations

    Grades 7 to 10 | 120 minutes | Assiniboine Park Zoo

    Maximum 30 students.

    The Zoo's Conservation and Research Department conducts active field work in the Zoo and in the Churchill area. This program highlights how our research is contributing to a better understanding of Arctic species, including possible impacts from a changing climate. Students have the opportunity to engage with actual field data and learn new analysis techniques. Focus areas include: Behavioural Ecology of Seals in Western Hudson Bay and Population Dynamics of Arctic and Sub-Arctic Marine Species.

    Learning Outcomes: Grade 7 Science and Social Science, Grade 10 Science

    Awesome Adaptations

    Grades 1 to 8 | 90 minutes | Assiniboine Park Zoo

    How do animals survive the heat and rain of the tropics or the cold winters in the Arctic tundra? Students will discover how animals survive in their habitat and study specific characteristics of animals here at the Zoo through age appropriate activities! Choose from Arctic or Tropical Adaptations.

    Learning Outcomes: Grade 1 - 8 Science

    Endangered Species & Conservation

    Grades 7 to 12 | 90 minutes | Assiniboine Park Zoo

    Did you know that Assiniboine Park Zoo is involved in important conservation and research projects involving muskox, polar bears and even dolphins? Come and learn about what zoos are doing to Save Animals From Extinction (SAFE).

    Learning Outcomes: Grades 7, 8, Grade 9 and 10 Social Studies; Grade 7 and 12 Science

    Nature Photography

    Grades 3 to 8 | 90 minutes | Assiniboine Park OR Assiniboine Park Zoo

    Photography is a great way to connect with nature and take a closer look at the environment around you. Discover the Zoo through the lens of a camera and learn basic techniques that will help you take great outdoor photographs. Cameras are provided. This program is available September through April in the Zoo and year-round in the Park. Maximum 30 students

    Learning Outcomes: Grade 3 - 8 Social Studies and Art

    PURRfect Predators - Big Cats

    Grades 3 to 7 | 90 minutes | Assiniboine Park Zoo

    Learn about the distinc characteristics of tigers and leopards and compare their vocalizations to smaller cats such as cougars and lynx. Find out why two-thirds of the world's cats are endangered and learn what the Assiniboine Park Zoo is doing to conserve them.

    Learning Outcomes: Grades 4 and 6 Science

    The Role of Zoos in a Changing Climate

    Grades 10 and 12 | 120 minutes | International Polar Bear Conservation Centre

    How do zoos contribute to climate change solutions? Students will explore the value of interpretation through a GPS scavenger hunt in Journey to Churchill before examining the impact that zoos currently have on visitors’ sustainability behaviour. Students will then review research conducted at Assiniboine Park Zoo that evaluated the impact of post-visitor action resources and develop a social media strategy to increase the number of visitors taking action on climate change. 

    Learning Outcomes: Grade 10 Science, Grade 12 Biology

  • A View to the Arctic - Middle + Senior Years

    A VIEW TO THE ARCTIC: AN ECOLOGICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL JOURNEY

    Middle and Senior Years

    Assiniboine Park Zoo and The Manitoba Museum are offering a unique way to learn more about Arctic and Sub-Arctic life in Manitoba! With this unique partnership, you’ll learn about polar bears, First Nations and Inuit culture. Explore sustainable resources of the Arctic, and the effects that we as humans have on the environment. Start your morning at Assiniboine Park Zoo, where an outdoor adventure awaits, complete with guided tour and hands-on activities which explore specific adaptations in the Zoo’s premier Arctic exhibition Journey to Churchill. Choose your favourite place for lunch and then make your way to The Manitoba Museum for a fun-filled afternoon exploring Inuit culture, water and ice.

    Program Options:

    1. Arctic Adaptations: Examine the environment surrounding Churchill, Manitoba, and how a changing climate may affect the animals of the north. Explore how the limited resources of skin, snow, stone and bone were integral to the survival of the Inuit.

    2. Arctic Sea Ice: Discover the connections between tundra and sea ice. Explore the challenges of managing animal species and sustainable resources of water and ice, while exploring the ecosystem in the Arctic and Antarctic regions of the planet.

    Minimum: 12 students | Maximum: 12 students

    For more detailed information about this exciting joint program, please download the information sheet below.

    A-View-to-the-Arctic
  • Adult + Senior

    Adults and seniors groups can also take part in our fun education programs. We have art workshops, food-based programs and fitness classes

    Click here to learn more.

   

Go!

Please complete our online form to initiate your booking. This form collects basic information so that we can better respond to your program request.  We will review your information and contact you within two business days to discuss your booking.

CLICK HERE TO GET STARTED

Having trouble? Call us at 204-927-6070 or send us an email at education@assiniboinepark.ca.

Program Guide for Schools and Community Groups

As an alternative to an Educational Program, groups may opt for one of the following:

Guided Tours

Guided walking tours are available for groups year-round at the Assiniboine Park Zoo. Tours are 60 to 90 minutes in length and require a minimum of 12 people. More...

Outreach Programs

Can't come to us, we'll come to you! Our Outreach Programs include workshops for children of all ages, adults and seniors. More...

Self-Guided Zoo Visit

Reduced rates are available for school and licensed child care centres for self-guided Zoo visits. Please see form below for rates and booking information. Please note: We will only accept business cheques for self-guided groups that book their Zoo visit in advance. Any self-guided groups that do not pre-book must pay by Visa, MasterCard, cash or debit card.

Self Guided School and Child Care Booking Form
   
group of children at the Zoo
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2595 Roblin Boulevard | View Map
Winnipeg, MB Canada, R3P 2N7
204 927 6000 | Email Us

 

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at the Park and Zoo

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contact us

assiniboine park zoo

2595 Roblin Boulevard | View Map

Winnipeg, MB Canada, R3P 2N7

204 927 6000 | Email Us

 
plan your visit
explore
learn + play
become a member
book an event
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support us
conserve

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