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200 Years



Premier Binns proclaimed the year 2004 as the Year of Learning and Innovation in Prince Edward Island. The Department of Education developed activities that complemented existing curriculum, highlighted our historical achievements, increased the awareness of innovative practices, and encouraged new partnerships in learning and innovation. Activities designed for Island students were well received and enjoyed high participation rates. Although the year of celebrations has closed, we believe there is still value in retaining the background information of why the year 2004 was cause for celebrating our educational journey.

The History
200 Years of Learning and
Innovation in Prince Edward Island

In 1804, Lieutenant Governor Edmund Fanning set aside ten town lots in Charlotte Town to establish a school for higher learning. Charlotte Town had approximately 400 citizens. This granting of land marked the beginning of government taking on the responsibility for the education of its citizens.

Although there were a small number of private schools in existence, it was not until 1820 before the first government constructed school was founded. In 1825 the first Education Act was passed. From the setting aside of the land, the founding of the first government school, to the first legislation governing education, Prince Edward Island’s learning journey has been one of pragmatism and innovation.

Project Launch [PDF]

Brochure [PDF]

Contact information:

Heather Orford
Department of Education
hgorford@edu.pe.ca

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