School programs

Batoche National Historic Site was commemorated in 1923 as being nationally important to the history of Canada because:

• It was the site of the armed conflict between the Métis provisional government and the Canadian government in 1885.
• It was a prominent Métis community called Batoche.
• It demonstrates the use of the Métis river lot system.
• It was the heart of the North-West Resistance of 1885.

Interpretation

Interpreters will be using a variety of techniques to deliver messages: period activities, demonstrations, or non-period learning activities. The activities are aimed at the students, but teachers and chaperones can join in, too! Activities are intended to be educational and fun.

Every group will be greeted by an interpreter and receive an orientation upon arrival.

The Batoche open air shuttle seats forty-eight (48) and can be booked for an additional fee.

• See prices and fees

For a washroom break or time to visit the gift shop, add 10 to 15 minutes. If you allow for a lunch break, add another 30 minutes.

Participating in a customized learning program, tailored for your curriculum needs and guided by an experienced interpreter will give students an experience they won’t soon forget. 

Enhanced program fees must be paid upon arrival. Cash, cheques, credit cards, and/or debit cards are accepted. Cheques are made payable to "The Receiver General for Canada".

• See prices

Please note: prices are subject to change.

Book early to reserve your class spot!

To reserve your spot please fill out the booking form and email to the contact information provided on the form at least 14 days in advance of your preferred tour date.

2025 Batoche school tour package (PDF 244 KB)

• Batoche NHS will confirm the options you choose when your booking is processed and confirmed in March.
• Forms are processed in the order in which they are received.

Booking Limits

The theatre has a maximum capacity of ninety people.

To ensure quality, bookings will be accepted in accordance with capacity.

Reservations

We encourage all groups taking part in a heritage presentation program to reserve ahead of time to secure your space as to avoid congestion and potential delays. Capacity at some locations is limited and a reservation will help ensure a smooth and pleasant visit.

If you need to make changes to your reservation, please call the site as soon as possible.

Rain, snow, shine or mosquitoes, Batoche National Historic Site is open and the programs run as scheduled! There's a lot of walking outside. Please ensure students and chaperones are dressed appropriately for the weather conditions and are wearing comfortable walking shoes.

When visiting Batoche National Historic Site, please:

• Ensure students and chaperones are dressed appropriately for the weather and are wearing comfortable walking shoes as most of your tour will be spent walking on site.
• Arrive a few minutes before you’re scheduled to begin so students can use the facilities if needed.
• Note that busses usually have to drive slower on Highway 225 due to poor road conditions.
• Allow time for the ferry crossing if your group is taking the ferry across the river.
• Phone the site if you encounter a delay along the way so we can accommodate and make sure your visit goes a smoothly as possible.

Many classes also visit neighbouring attractions such as:

• Fort Carlton (306) 933-7937
• Duck Lake Museum (306) 467-2057
• Seager Wheeler Historical Farm (306) 232-5959

Please keep young students’ needs and tolerance level in mind when planning to visit several attractions in one day.

Gift Shop

The Batoche Gift Shop features:

• Souvenirs made by local artisans.
• Publications relevant to the history of Batoche and the Métis people.
• Canteen items for a quick snack on the go.

Please plan time to visit the Gift Shop.

Food Services

Café Batoche – Please indicate if a menu is required on the booking form. School groups may only order Bannock.

Picnic Areas

There are multiple open and sheltered picnic areas at the visitor center and East Village. Picnic tables are provided. Open fires, barbeques, hibachis, etc. are not permitted. Please don't feed any animals.

Hiking Trail

• See hiking trails

St. Antoine-de-Padoue Church and Rectory, 1896

These historic buildings have been restored, exterior and interior, to 1896 and house many artifacts that are original to the time. Interpreters will provide you with important details concerning the structures, their use, the role they played in the history of Batoche, and the people who occupied them.

Jean Caron Sr. Farm Home

This home is a Métis dwelling from 1895 that will provide a glimpse of daily life in a Métis home. This building has undergone significant restoration in recent years. This joint project was a result of a collaborative effort between our privileged partner, Gabriel Dumont Institute and Parks Canada to create and promote memorable experiences at Batoche.

Middleton's Zareba

This area portrays the military encampment of the North West Field Force during the Battle of Batoche in 1885.

River Lots

From the top of Mission Ridge, visitors can get a view of the river lot farm system which the Métis used in the St. Laurent settlement area.

Métis Rifle Pits

Visitors can see a Métis rifle pit that has been excavated by archeologists. On the third day of the battle, Middleton led a reconnaissance force just to the east of these pits to test the strength of the Métis position.

Cemetery

The St. Antoine-de-Padoue cemetery is located across from the historic St. Antoine de Padoue church on the Batoche National Historic Site.

Batoche Village (East)

The remains of the village, the Carlton Trail and the historic ferry crossing are interpreted by signage and exhibits using maps, historical photographs and artists' illustrations. The North West Field Force captured the village of Batoche on May 12, 1885. Visitors can walk down to the village (over 1 km) or drive using the North access road.

• Learn more about the East Villages