FREDERICTON (GNB) – Twelve regional heritage fairs will take place throughout the province in April and May.

“Regional heritage fairs are a proud tradition in our schools and communities,” said Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister Bill Fraser. “Through these events we are providing our young people the opportunity to explore our provincial and national history and learn more about the people, places and events that have shaped our way of life.”

Students from 142 participating schools will gather at regional heritage fairs to present their projects. All projects have a Canadian theme, have been student-driven, and are developed using fundamental skills like research, creativity, writing, problem solving, experimentation and artistic expression.

“Every year we see an impressive range of presentations, which increasingly use historical literacy skills to tell our story,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Serge Rousselle. “The hands-on approach provides a unique opportunity to learn history though innovative methods and through this supportive network of community events.”

The fairs are being held on the following dates:

  • April 24 - Independent Schools - Fundamental Baptist Church - Saint John;
  • April 24 - Anglophone North School District - Nelson Rural School - Miramichi;
  • April 24 and 25 - District scolaire francophone Nord-Est - Shippagan Sports Complex - Shippagan;
  • April 28 - Anglophone North School District - Bathurst Education Centre - Bathurst;
  • April 30 - District scolaire francophone Nord-Est - École Place-des-Jeunes -Bathurst;
  • May 2 - District scolaire francophone Nord-Ouest - Musée historique du Madawaska - Edmundston;
  • May 5 - Anglophone South School District - Kings Valley Wesleyan Church - Quispamsis;
  • May 6 - Anglophone East School District  - Albert County Museum - Hopewell Cape;
  • May 7 - Anglophone South School District - New Brunswick Museum - Saint John;
  • May 7 - District scolaire francophone Sud  - J. K. Irving Centre - Bouctouche;
  • May 13 - Anglophone West School District - Oromocto High School - Oromocto; and
  • May 20 - Anglophone South School District - Blacks Harbour Elementary School - Blacks Harbour.

Students from elementary, middle and high school are eligible to compete for one of 10 different award categories. In addition, 15 students will be selected to attend the provincial showcase taking place in June at Government House in Fredericton.

“Our government has committed to ensuring there are more learning opportunities related to improving student writing and reading skills,” said Fraser. “Through the regional heritage fairs we are ensuring that this generation can gain these fundamental skills that will allow them to compete in the knowledge economy while at the same time learn more about their heritage, cultural identity and about how reflecting on the past can help shape a brighter future.”

Complementary school-based fair activities are held throughout the province during Heritage Week in February and during French Pride Week in March.

 

23-04-15