Archaeology has fantastic appeal, not only because of the public interest generated through amazing discoveries but also because it encompasses such a wide range of specialisms and areas of interest. I wanted to be an archaeologist for as long as I can remember, I grew up watching Time Team and spending my summer holidays visiting historic sites, monuments, and museums. I completed my undergraduate, masters and doctorate degrees at the University of Bradford and travelled across Europe and to the USA for research. I also took part in excavations (both research and commercial) across the UK, France, and Iceland, so it is safe to say my childhood dream came true!

But it did not end there – my career in archaeology has continued and I now work as a historic environment professional for CIfA, the leading professional body representing archaeologists working in the UK and overseas –so here is a taster of what I do now.

Who are CIfA?

There are currently 18 members of staff making up the team at CIfA based across the UK – we come from a variety of backgrounds including archaeology, but also events management, administration, education, and finance. We have a great mix of skills and expertise supplemented by a large and varied network of specialist volunteers that make up our board of directors, advisory council, validation, registration committees, and specialist interest groups. Together we champion the promotion of high standards and ethical professional practice across the sector by helping to develop and deliver training and CPD opportunities, highlighting the importance of accreditation, demonstrating professional competence, and working in the public interest.

What do I do?

My role is Senior Professional Standards and Practice Coordinator which involves assisting with the wider management, review, and implementation of CIfA’s professional practice initiatives and standards. This involves a lot of project and development work, which makes my work very diverse and I get to meet a wide range of people. I bet you thought Standards and guidance could not possibly be exciting, didn’t you? You thought wrong!

Here are some examples of the projects I have been involved with:

• Building capacity through innovation (HE funded)
• Re-imagining Scottish Archaeology (HES funded)
• Online Toolkits (for example, Specialist Finds reporting and Selection Toolkit for Archaeological Archives) (Funded by HE)

What am I working on now?

I am currently working on the review and redesign of CIfA’s own suite of Standards and guidance. This is to ensure they are fit for purpose, up-to-date with current practice, applicable outside of the UK and are user friendly and accessible. I am working with our special interest groups and an advisory panel made up of accredited professionals from across the UK and Republic of Ireland. Keep an eye on the CIfA website for more updates soon!

How you can get involved

There are many ways you can get involved in the work CIfA undertakes – interested in learning more? See our webpage Get involved with CIfA | Chartered Institute for Archaeologists