Programming Details: 60 Minutes

Copper has been used for over 10,000 years. Increasing demand since the 1900s led to the development of mines such as the one in Britannia. For Britannia Mine, the initial discovery was only the beginning of its decades-long search for copper deposits -- before you can mine it, you first have to find it. This is a story of what exploration at Britannia involved.       

Area of Focus:

• Mineral Exploration

What your students will see and do:

• Travel underground and experience the sights and sounds of the historic mine.
• Discover key innovations in exploration with live equipment demonstrations.
• Reflect on the consequences of Britannia’s successful mineral exploration.
• Address the question: why did the mine close and where will our copper come from in the future.
• Please note that due to the physical features of the mine, hard hats (provided) and masks for visitors 12 and up will be required in the underground.
• Accessibility note: Copper Quest is a multi-sensory experience. Students will be exposed to loud noises and lowered light conditions under the supervision of our Historical Interpreters. There are 48 steps to the entrance of the underground. Please let our bookings team know if you have any questions.

Big Ideas:

• Grade 4: The pursuit of valuable natural resources has played a key role in changing the land, people, and communities of Canada.
• Grade 5: Natural resources continue to shape the economy and identity of different regions of Canada.