Thames River Heritage Park Now Accepting Registrations for 2026 Docent Academy

Register Today | 2026 Schedule: February 19 – April 23 | Thursdays, 9am-12:30pm 

Travel back in time with scholarly and engaging teachers along with other intellectually curious companions and discover the rich history and heritage of the Thames.

Working with a select group of respected scholars and noted experts, the team at Thames River Heritage Park designed the Docent Academy for passionate learners like you with an in-depth examination of the places, people, and events that have shaped life along the Thames and our region to make the heritage and culture of the Thames River region vivid and relevant.

This 10-week, highly-acclaimed program on the history and heritage of the Thames is held on Thursdays from 9 AM – 12:30 PM. A collaborative effort by Thames River Heritage Park Foundation and the heritage sites that comprise the Park. The Docent Academy features several weeks of lively and informative talks and presentations, combined with site visits to each participating site.

At the conclusion of the 10-session academy, each participant will volunteer to serve at least one partner site of their choice, for a minimum of 4 hours/month. Site-specific orientation and training is scheduled on an individual basis by the host site. Graduates are asked to commit to a year of volunteer time.

Please be aware that access to historical sites may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues. Each session will require a considerable amount of outdoor walking.