What age group is this program designed for?

Homeschool Days: Palaeo Seniors is designed for youth aged 12 and up.

How long does the program last?

Each session lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Is prior knowledge of paleontology required?

No prior knowledge is needed; the program is suitable for beginners.

Are fossil specimens handled during the event?

Yes, participants engage in hands-on fossil activities under supervision.

Is the program wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility details are not specified; we recommend contacting the organizers directly for accommodations.

How can I book a spot?

Reservations can be made through the provided referral link to the booking platform.

Explore Paleontology Hands-On at Homeschool Days: Palaeo Seniors in Wembley, Alberta

Situated in the charming town of Wembley, Alberta, the Homeschool Days: Palaeo Seniors event offers an exceptional gateway into the ancient world of paleontology for youth aged 12 and up. This engaging program is designed to captivate curious minds through a blend of expert-led talks and interactive fossil workshops. Led by the knowledgeable curator Dr. Bamforth, each session illuminates the prehistoric past with focused palaeo talks that delve into subjects ranging from dinosaur anatomy to fossil formation processes, making complex concepts accessible and fascinating for young learners.

What sets this experience apart is the hands-on fossil lab activities, where participants transition from listeners to active investigators. Inside the lab, students handle authentic fossils, learn excavation techniques, and gain firsthand understanding of how paleontologists piece together Earth’s natural history. The dynamic structure of the program means that each visit introduces fresh content and new challenges, ensuring repeat guests encounter unique and memorable learning opportunities every time.

Wembley itself, a modest town embedded in Alberta's rich fossil-bearing landscape, offers a fitting backdrop. The region is known for its sedimentary rock formations that hold a treasure trove of Mesozoic era remnants, giving real-world context to the classroom lessons and sparking deeper appreciation for local geology.

The event fosters a respectful curiosity about the natural world, encouraging sustainable exploration and an awareness of conservation’s role in protecting these precious paleontological sites. Beyond the scientific rigor, Homeschool Days builds community among homeschooling families and students passionate about Earth sciences, creativity, and critical thinking.

Ideal for homeschoolers and knowledge seekers keen on paleontology, this program combines engaging education with hands-on adventure. With a session lasting approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, it provides a perfect balance of instruction and practical activity that keeps participants energized and inspired.

Whether you’re a local or visiting Alberta, booking a spot in this program offers more than just a casual museum tour—it’s an interactive encounter with deep time, discovery, and learning that resonates long after the day ends. Families and educators eager to invite a meaningful, engaging, and evolving paleontology experience can't miss this standout offering in Wembley’s outdoor education scene.

About Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum

Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum in Wembley, Alberta is a regional centre for palaeontology and public education. The museum preserves and interprets local fossil heritage and operates research-led public programs that connect families, students and researchers to Alberta’s deep past.

Exhibits highlight mounted skeletons, interactive displays and rotating collections that showcase discoveries from the Pipestone Creek bonebed and the Wapiti Formation.

The museum runs guided field experiences and seasonal events led by trained palaeo-professionals, including the Pipestone Creek excavation visits, “Palaeontologist for a Day” digs, and the Bonebed Tour featuring the Pachyrhinosaurus skull known as BIG SAM. River-based outings such as the “Secrets of the Wapiti” float focus on regional geology, fossils and safe outdoor interpretation. Family-focused programs include Night at the Museum sleepovers, birthday parties with gallery access, Nesting Grounds early childhood sessions, and School’s Out PD Camps for ages 5–13.

Educational offerings extend to Homeschool Days and annual Science Festivals like Palaeo Palooza, providing hands-on activities, maker spaces, and film screenings. Admission options include full-day General Admission tickets with no re-entry. The museum partners with researchers, community groups and volunteers to conduct fieldwork and curate findings, following accepted conservation and documentation standards. Accessibility, safety and evidence-based interpretation are priorities. Visitors can expect guided learning, tangible fossil encounters, and professionally run events that support palaeontology, local heritage tourism and science education. Curatorial staff maintain research-grade collections, publish findings in peer-reviewed outlets when appropriate, and collaborate with universities to ensure scientific rigour and long-term preservation of specimens for future generations.