Ontario Legislative Assembly’s Model Parliament Program
Quick Glance: The OLA Model Parliament Program brings together the brightest young Ontario’s in a unique model parliament simulation held in the Ontario Legislative Assembly.
Key Highlights:
Location: Ontario Legislative Assembly, Queen’s Park, Toronto, Ontario and Online.
Dates : Starts in November (Virtual component). Then runs February 28th - March 1st (In-person component).
Age Range: Grade 10 - 12
Fees: none
Website: https://www.ola.org/en/visit-learn/programs/model-parliament-high-school-students
Registration Date: 2024 registration will open around September of 2024.
Overview:
The High School Model Parliament program at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario is designed for civic-minded Ontario students in grades 10 to 12, who are interested in current events and provincial issues. This unique experience brings together students from across the province for a three-day Model Parliament Program in Toronto. Students will have the opportunity to play the role of a Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) and learn how parliament works through a series of workshops and presentations. They will meet key figures in Ontario’s Parliament as they forge new friendships with like-minded students.
Young Ontarians who participate in this program will gain a stronger understanding of the province's parliamentary practices and traditions, and will benefit from an authentic experience that demonstrates the value and importance of the democratic process.
**Last updated November 2023 (description taken from the program’s website)
Testimonial 1
The following testimonial was submitted by Julia from Vaughan, Ontario. They answered the following key questions. Julia rates this program a 10 out of 10
What stood out about this opportunity that makes it such a unique experience?
Bring a part of law and politics, it engulfs the participants in the world of politics. This allows them to evaluate if they want to have a type of this career into the future. It also gives them a chance to meet new people that will create lasting relationships and connections.
What is something a youth applying to this program should know?
If I had to choose something that participants should know before attending, it will be to have confidence. have confidence and don't be afraid of embarrassing yourself or doing something wrong. Be mindful of what you say but get out there and try new things.
What was your favourite activity/experience in program?
The final days of the program were the most memberable. They were filled with such raw emotion, excitement and anxiety to perform our perfected bills in the Chamber. The chance to practice your public speaking in front of a large group. And, more importantly, having your speech matter in the formation of opinion from others. Having your words matter.
Testimonial 2
The following testimonial was submitted by Ray-Ray from Barrie, Ontario. They answered the following key questions. Ray-Ray rates this program a 10 out of 10
What stood out about this opportunity that makes it such a unique experience?
This program is truly one of those once and a life time opportunities. The most unique part of this program is meeting some of the most civilly involved youth from across Ontario. Every young person participating in this program is extremely keen about politics and political issues.
What is something a youth applying to this program should know?
The program is such an amazing environment to collaborate with other strong minded youth. Don’t be afraid to participate, contribute and engage with others in the program. Everyone is welcoming and great to value every opinion!
What was your favourite activity/experience in program?
Developing a bill and debating in the Legislative Assembly had to be my favourite experience of the entire program! This is a truly unique experience to have the opportunity to stand in the legislative assembly taking the place of an MPP.
Explore other showcased opportunities