Programs & Resources for Teachers & Youth

Justice System Education Program

The Justice System Education Program is designed for schools and community groups. The program provides an overview of the justice system, how it works, and who is involved. Activities include courtwatching, court orientations, mock trials, judge/lawyer sessions as well as career and personal planning.

Courts of BC

CourtsofBC.ca is a website that provides educational information and instructional videos about BC’s Provincial Court, Supreme Court and Court of Appeal. In the videos Alex, a student interested in learning more about BC’s court system, speaks to three judges about the role and functions of the three courts. In addition to the videos, this resource also features downloadable student handouts and a Teacher's Guide.

Youth Criminal Justice Act

Youth and teachers can use YCJA.ca to learn about the Youth Criminal Justice Act - the law that is applied to anyone aged 12-17. Students can read articles, take quizzes and complete assignments. Teachers can read lessons and take a final exam.

Families Change: Guide to Separation and Divorce

FamiliesChange.ca provides information on separation and divorce for children, teens, parents and professionals. Animation, text, audio and video combine to help children, teens, parents better cope with divorce or separation. A professionals section is also included. The site is a popular and acclaimed age-appropriate resource. FamiliesChange.ca is also available in French.

KidsBC: Explore Changeville

This animated, highly interactive website is designed to help BC kids experiencing parental divorce or separation. The virtual world of "Changeville" provides a range of information and activities for children to explore. This exploration takes place through the use of a personally created avatar that walks through Changeville to visit the Park, Legal Street, Break Up Street and the Mall. The website is targeted to children ages 6 to 12 and it can be explored alone, or with one or both parents.

Legal Independence: It's Your Right

Legal Independence: It's Your Right is a FREE resource that uses real-life examples in an engaging, 10-minute video to help Civics 11, Social Studies 11 and Law 12 students understand the concepts of judicial and legal independence. A Teacher's Guide is available. This project was developed in partnership with The Law Society of BC.

Wall Charts: BC's Justice System

This series of 10 large wall charts feature easy-to-follow illustrations of various areas of BC’s justice system. Series A is introductory and designed for elementary school and ESL students. It is also available in French. Series B is advanced and designed for use with high school, criminology and law students as well as justice system personnel. A guidebook is also available.

Though the Heavens Fall

Though the Heavens Fall describes the Court of Appeal - what it is, what it does, and how it upholds values that are cornerstones of a free and democratic society. It highlights important changes, such as the introduction of Canada's Charter of Rights and Freedoms as well as gay marriage, and illustrates how concepts such as the rule of law and judicial independence are critical to the health of our justice system. A teacher's guide is included.

Law Connection

Law Connection features current legal issues that provide teachers and students in BC with an opportunity to engage in activities and discussions that enhance the learning process. Articles, backgrounders and teaching resources accompany each topic.

Legal Rights for Youth

LegalRights4U.ca uses animated videos and handouts to teach young people about their rights and responsibilities in Canada. Scenarios include Street Freedoms, Don’t Look in My Locker and The Party. A teacher’s guide is also provided.