Vimy 100 is set to be one of the largest commemorative events in Canada’s history. Help your students make the most of the once-in-a-lifetime experience with our suggested pre- and post-tour activities.
Learn about the events during March 1917
Trench raids are a common tactic for the Corps, but come with heavy consequences. During one of the largest Canadian raids on the Germans, the 4th Division lost 687 men in an attempt to secure Hill 145 and the Pimple.
The 4th Division continues east towards Hill 145 and quickly overcomes the remaining German forces, ending the battle for Vimy Ridge and placing the region in Allied hands.
Meet a veteran: Humanize war for your students by introducing them to a real veteran. Learn more and find a veteran to come to your classroom through The Memory Project.
Learn about the events during April 1917
Heavy artillery assaults continue in preparation for the major Vimy Ridge attack. The Corps are able to destroy major sections of the extensive German trenches.
Each Division is assigned an objective:
1st Division: Farbus, 2nd Division: Thelus, 3rd Division: Vimy Ridge, 4th Division: Hill 145
Start packing: Encourage your students to make a packing list. Be sure to include the essentials:
›› Warm, waterproof coat; Sunglasses, hat, sun block; Camera; Small backpack; Durable, waterproof shoes; Plastic bags for damp clothes
Learn about the events during July 1943
More than 93,000 Canadians play a vital role in the Italian Campaign during WWII. As they push north, Canadians face difficult battles against some of the German’s best troops in grueling conditions.
Attend Vimy 100: Join with dignitaries, veterans and thousands of fellow Canadian youth for the official Vimy 100 commemorative event. Then, escape the crowds with a visit to Arras for an exciting, exclusive scavenger hunt.
Learn about the events during June 1944
During the D-Day offensive on June 6, 1944, the Royal Canadian Navy shell German targets while Royal Canadian Air Force planes attack the German beach defenses. More than 450 Canadians parachute inland and engage the enemy just hours before more than 14,000 Canadian troops charge Juno Beach.
Continue the commemoration: After the big day, continue your historic and cultural exploration with visits to the Flanders Field Museum, the Memorial Museum of Passchendaele 1917, Juno Beach Centre and much more.
Share the experience
When you get home, ask your students to reflect on the experience by journaling or creating a slideshow of trip photos. Then, hold a presentation at your school, community centre or veteran’s centre.
Plan your next commemoration: Once you’ve experienced the impact of taking your students to a commemorative event abroad, continue the tradition by joining Explorica on a future tour. Explore the 75th anniversary of the Italian Campaign and the 75th anniversary of D-Day sample itineraries then give us a call to start planning your trip: 1.888.310.7119.