Young Interpreters are children who come to Upper Canada Village for nine days to help portray life in the 1860s, and to learn about the skills and techniques involved in being an historical interpreter.

Click here to read what past Young Interpreters have to say about the program.

The Young Interpreters Program provides participants with the opportunity to assume the role of typical 19th century children. Each child is lent a period costume and instructed in the proper manner of behaviour for a child in the 1860s.

Young Interpreters are then assigned to a selection of locations where, under supervision, they observe and participate in the historical interpretation by performing tasks and learning the skills appropriate to the time period. These locations include Loucks, Ross and Tenant Farms, Cabinetmaker's, Tinsmith's and Blacksmith's shops; Bakery, Dressmaker's or the Weaver's home.

Eligibility and Notification of Acceptance
Applicants must be between the ages of 10 and 15 as of June 1, 2008. In order to offer this experience to a maximum number of participants, Young Interpreters with three or more years experience in the program will only be considered should space be available.

Applicants are expected to possess sufficient English language skills to permit a basic level of understanding and expression. Also, since Young Interpreters are constantly in front of visitors, it is important that applicants are at ease talking to people and are not bothered by public scrutiny.

Participation is limited to a maximum of 12 children per session. All criteria being met, applicants are assigned on a first-come, first-serve basis. Successful applicants will be notified beginning April 30, 2008. Remaining spaces will be filled up to the first day of each session.

Accommodations
Please note that at present, Upper Canada Village does not provide accommodations for Young Interpreters. It is the parents' responsibility to arrange for transportation and/or accommodation for their children.

Program Fee (2008)
The program cost is $210.00 (plus GST). This fee is due when you are accepted and is non-refundable.

How to Apply
To apply, please print, fill out and send back the Young Interpreters Application Form.