Each year, 40 students are selected from across Canada to participate in the Page Program. Pages are first-year students registered at one of the eligible post-secondary institutions in the national capital region. They work on a part-time basis for one year.
In the chamber and around Parliament Hill, pages support parliamentary democracy by providing a range of services to members of Parliament. This incredible work experience broadens their knowledge of the rich traditions of the Canadian parliamentary system.
“The phrase "once in a lifetime" feels cliché, and yet there's really no other way of describing the Page Program. There are few other places where you have to pinch yourself when you walk in just to make sure you're not dreaming (yes, you really work here!). Whether it's the excitement, the immersion into the world of politics, the friends, or the opportunities it opens up, the Page Program has something for everyone— my only wish was that the year could last longer!”
“It has been quite the adventure moving to the most political city in Canada and experiencing it all from a non-partisan position. From interactions within the Chamber to special events outside, the Page Program has opened the door to a path I never would have thought possible or would have imagined walking down. Continuing to work on Parliament Hill has become a realistic future and I am excited to see how politics and policy will shape my time pursuing a degree in Environmental Studies!”
“I thought I would get over the feeling of wonder and amazement I got walking up to Parliament every day for work, but it still hasn't worn off. The Page Program is a once in a lifetime experience, and every part of it is incredible. From the people I got to work with, to the simple experience of walking to work each day, they all made this job so worthwhile, and I had such an amazing time while learning so much about our government and falling in love with the City of Ottawa.”
“Unforgettable! Having the once in a lifetime opportunity of being a page was truly life changing and unforgettable. This program is more than a job and it has taught me more than I could have possibly imagined. While I did not have a passion for politics initially, I will always be grateful for being offered this opportunity as I have learnt so much. I have witnessed history being made every day, contributed to an amazing work place, and made lifelong friendships. I will never forget my year as a page and I know that the education, friends, and memories I have collected will always be with me.”
“The Page Program has been the most incredible experience of my life. Coming from a small town in British Columbia, I couldn't help but feel disconnected from the rest of the country, so to be here in the capital, immersed in the energy and liveliness of the Hill is more than I can ask for. The experiences in the House have been one of a kind, but most importantly, it is the people I have met through the program and the memories we have made together that have made this year so wonderful.”
“Working as a Page in the House of Commons has been an incredible privilege which has allowed me and my fellow coworkers, and friends, to better understand the intricacies of Canadian politics and the workings of government. I would highly recommend the Page Program to anyone who wishes to work in a stimulating and historic environment such as Parliament.”
“Being a Page was truly an incredible experience! Not only was I privileged to thoroughly learn about Canada’s democratic system, but I also had the opportunity to witness the lives of Members of Parliament. The House of Commons is an outstanding political classroom and I recommend the Page Program with much enthusiasm!”
“It was an amazing experience, one that I will truly never forget. I was able to get the insider perspective on how our Canadian political system really works. It was a privilege to be able to work on the floor of the House of Commons along with my 39 fellow pages. To those who are thinking of applying... it really is an experience of a lifetime!”