Hey everyone! I'm Laldinpuii C, a passionate 24-year-old currently immersed in the captivating world of archaeology. As a student pursuing my MA in Archaeology and Heritage Practice at the University of Chester, I recently embarked on a thrilling 30-hour placement with the Council for British Archaeology (CBA), working alongside a vibrant Engagement Team, with a special focus on youth engagement (ages 8-25). Let me take you on a journey through my enriching experience!

A Glimpse into the Heart of Archaeological Endeavors

My journey began with a one-day visit to the CBA's head office in York, where I, along with my coursemate, had the privilege of witnessing the remarkable work being done. We were warmly welcomed by the staff, who graciously shared insights into their initiatives and the rich history of York, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.

One of my primary responsibilities during the placement was to underscore the significance of placements for postgraduate archaeology students. These placements serve as invaluable opportunities to augment theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience, bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. To shed light on this, I produced a podcast titled 'The Value of Placement for Postgraduate Students,' featuring Joanne Kirton, the Delivery and Engagement Manager at CBA, and Dominique, my esteemed coursemate. It was a delightful experience delving into our shared passion for archaeology and discussing many ways in which postgraduate students benefit from placements with CBA.

In the podcast, we delved into the initiatives undertaken by CBA to engage youth in archaeology, ranging from captivating projects to interactive learning experiences. From excavation sites to educational workshops, CBA is dedicated to igniting the spark of curiosity and fostering a deeper appreciation for archaeology among the younger generation. We highlighted how postgraduate students like myself can actively contribute to these endeavours, thereby enriching both their academic journey and the broader archaeological community. Moreover, I also gained hands-on experience in using graphic designing platforms like Canva as well as audio-visual editing software called PowerDirector through this placement which I hope to put into use more in the future.

A Supportive Ecosystem: My Experience with the CBA

Throughout my placement, I had the privilege of working closely with the dedicated team at CBA, particularly Jo and Rachel, who were always just a call away whenever I needed assistance or guidance. Their unwavering support and mentorship significantly enhanced my learning experience, fostering a nurturing environment conducive to personal and professional growth.

As I reflect on my time with CBA, I am filled with immense gratitude for the invaluable experience and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects. This placement journey has not only equipped me with practical skills and insights but has also deepened my passion for archaeology. I am truly grateful for the doors it has opened and the connections I have forged along the way.

In conclusion, my placement with the Council for British Archaeology has been nothing short of transformative. From exploring the historic streets of York to delving into thought-provoking discussions on archaeology, every moment has been a stepping stone towards personal and professional growth. I eagerly look forward to continuing my journey in the fascinating realm of archaeology, armed with the knowledge and experiences gained during this enriching placement.

Cheers to new beginnings and endless discoveries! Keep exploring!

Warm regards,

Laldinpuii C

Listen to the #Archaeopod podcast here:

This blog was released as part of Youth Day during the 2024 Festival of Archaeology. Youth Day is sponsored by the Royal Archaeological Institute.