Unearthing Futures: a youth-led pathway into archaeology event
This event has been created by the Council for British Archaeology’s Youth Advisory Board (YAB), a group of twelve 18-25 year olds from across the UK who are passionate about making archaeology more inclusive, relevant, and accessible. It has been designed by young people, for young people, ensuring that the day is full of fun activities as well as getting hands-on practical guidance about the archaeology and heritage sector.Lunch and travel bursaries are available to all who join us on the day!
Come along, meet like-minded people, and discover what archaeology could mean for you! No experience needed – just bring your curiosity.
Why have we created this event?
This event was created by the YAB and funded by Historic England in response to the growing demand in UCAS applications and apprenticeships schemes to have practical knowledge of the career or course they are interested in. However, with the extinction of the Archaeology A-Level and the increasing inaccessibility of community excavations or volunteering experiences, the likelihood of young people gaining meaningful experience in the sector has become very difficult. The YAB additionally recognised the lack of similar events in the North East compared to other large cities across the country, and so chose the Great North Museum: Hancock in the hopes that local young people from the North East will get an opportunity to experience this jam-packed day of archaeology!
Is this event for me?
This event is especially aimed at young people from underrepresented backgrounds who may not have had many opportunities to engage with the heritage sector. We want to show that archaeology isn’t one-size-fits-all and that your voice, interests, and experiences can shape its future.
However, if you do have some experience, whether that be volunteering, studying or working, but are still unsure about the sector, please do still fill out a recruitment form!
Additionally, we encourage people who may have had a previous negative experience when trying to navigate your journey into the sector to apply. In the YAB, we are passionate about accessibility, and believe everyone should feel welcome in the heritage sector – regardless of your background, what subjects you study, or how much you know about archaeology (yet!).
To help reduce barriers to participation we will be offering every participant a minimum of a £50 travel bursary to attend the day. If you would like to request further help with travel and/or accommodation costs which total over £50, please select this option on the online sign-up form below. We will also be providing a free lunch and refreshments.
What’s happening on the day?
The event is taking place at the Great North Museum: Hancock in Newcastle, where we will be hosting a series of exciting hands-on activities facilitated by experts in their field, including; zooarchaeology (animal bones), archaeological illustration, museum curation and fieldwork skills.
There will also be an opportunity to ask questions to a range of professionals who will be joining us on the day in the form of a panel discussion and a networking session. They have a range of backgrounds and specialties in the sector, and they will be on hand throughout the day to speak to you about their experiences and get their advice!
We’ll cover various aspects from excavation basics and creative interpretation to wellbeing in heritage and how to get involved with archaeology in your own way. Whether you’re into science, art, history or storytelling: there’s a place for you here.
We will provide all the equipment you might need, and lunch will also be included.
The YAB have created a safe space for all the young people involved to:
- try out real skills in hands-on workshops
- hear from young professionals and those in non-traditional archaeology roles in panel discussions
- explore Newcastle’s rich history on an optional guided photography walk
- connect with others during relaxed networking session
Find out more about the day
There will be four activities on the day, and you will have the opportunity to pick two of those. Each activity will last for 75 minutes, and you will have the opportunity to learn firsthand from sector professionals. The small group size will allow you to ask any questions you have and learn in a relaxed, informal environment.
If networking isn’t your thing – don’t worry! We will have self-guided trails and activities to complete around the museum available, so you can explore the museum and Newcastle’s history at your own pace if you wish.
A preliminary schedule for the day is outlined below:
How do I apply?
To apply for a place please complete our online application form.
The form will collect some demographic data (your name, postcode, email address). You will also be asked how much experience you have with archaeology, museums, or heritage sites and why you are interested in joining us for the event.
If we have a very high turnout in applications, this recruitment form will be used as a selection criteria to ensure we invite those who would most likely benefit from the event. If you have been successful, you will receive a follow-up email from us after the closing date of the 17th August.
The deadline for applications is Sunday 17th August.
The Great North Museum: Hancock have kindly provided the venue and support for this event free of charge for which we are incredibly greatful.
Our Youth Advisory Board is funded by Historic England and The Headley Trust.