How do I invite a senator to visit my class or group?

SENgage accepts requests from schools, colleges, universities and youth-serving organizations that wish to have a senator address their group.

To get started, please submit the Invite a senator form, and an event coordinator will contact you with the next steps.

In the meantime, explore our ready-to-use educational resources to help your students learn about the Senate’s role in Parliament!

Can I bring my class to visit the Senate of Canada Building?

Absolutely! SENgage accepts requests from schools, colleges, universities and youth-serving organizations that wish to have a senator address their group during a visit to the Senate of Canada Building.

To get started, fill out the Invite a senator form. When prompted, select “Visit to the Senate (in Ottawa)” as the event type.

Where is SENgage available?

Anywhere in Canada, in person or via videoconference, as circumstances allow.

How much does this cost?

There is no cost associated with this program.

How far in advance should I submit my request?

We recommend submitting your request at least six weeks before the date of the visit. For larger events, such as model parliaments, please submit your request at least eight weeks in advance.

What types of events can SENgage coordinate?

The possibilities are (virtually) endless: workshops, panel discussions, fireside chats, presentations, question-and-answer periods, recorded speeches, visits to Parliament, etc. These events can take place either in person or by videoconference.

Our event coordinators will work with you to determine the best way for your group to engage with a senator.

Once the event is confirmed, what can I expect?

You will receive a scenario note containing all the details of the planned event. An event coordinator will contact you beforehand to ensure everything is ready. However, given the unpredictable nature of parliamentary work, please be aware that a visit may need to be cancelled or rescheduled at the last minute.

How do I prepare for the senator’s visit?

The event coordinator will work with you to make sure that everyone is ready for the visit. Please keep an eye on your email, as we will need you to review a few documents and provide information about your school and class.

We have a variety of activities, lesson plans, resources and supporting materials available to help you prepare for your visit with a senator.

Check out our Resources page to find one that works best for you.

Can I take pictures at the event?

Yes, you are welcome to take pictures of senators during a visit. We invite you to tag the Senate’s social media accounts in your posts and use the hashtags #SenCA and #SENgage.

On X, tag @SenateCA (English) or @SenatCA (French).

On Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube, tag @SenCanada.

NOTE: If your event includes youth under the age of 18, please make sure you obtain written permission from a parent/guardian before sharing any images on social media.

Can I request a specific senator?

If you have a specific senator in mind, we will do our best to accommodate your request. However, because senators’ schedules are often very busy, we cannot guarantee the availability of a specific senator.

I would like to host a model parliament at the Senate. Whom do I need to contact?

Recognized student associations and youth-serving organizations can make a request to use Senate spaces for a model parliament. These requests are coordinated on a case-by-case basis by the Senate’s Communications, Broadcasting and Publications Directorate. Please email SENgage@sen.parl.gc.ca with details of your request and we will be in touch with you shortly.