Get digging

There are many ways that you can get involved in archaeology and explore how experts are trying to preserve our heritage.

The Council for British Archaeology (CBA) is a great place to get started and find out if there is anything going on in your area that you can participate in. It has information on local and regional projects that are looking for volunteers and it can offer practical help and advice for anyone who wants to become involved in archaeology. The CBA’s magazine, British Archaeology, has up to date details on the latest digs and discoveries and information on everything from conservation to new research techniques. It also has articles written by some of the country’s top archaeological experts. If you decide to become a member of the CBA, you will be invited to attend conferences and events and they also offer courses and information on upcoming fieldwork.

Time Team’s Tony Robinson is the president of the Young Archaeologists Club (YAC), the branch of the CBA that is open to anyone between the ages of nine and 16. It has its own magazine, Young Archaeologist, which has reports from junior correspondents and competitions, as well as news on the latest discoveries. You can join as an individual or get your family or school involved.

If you’re interested in finding out how to study to become an archaeologist, the Training Online Resource Centre for Archaeology (TORC) offers advice and information on courses from GCSE level right up to specialised training for professionals. As well as information on training in archaeology at every level, TORC’s website has fact sheets covering everything, from an introductory guide to responsible metal detecting, to how to survive your first excavation.

If you want to find out more about archaeology, but don’t want to get your hands dirty, English Heritage has information on excavations that are open to visitors. You can go along and see the experts at work on ongoing research projects and keep up to date with their progress through online reports. English Heritage also has details of past excavations and where you can see artefacts on display at exhibitions and museums around the country. These include sites that have been recreated and have replicas of the ancient objects, so you can get a real insight into what life was like for our ancestors.

The Nautical Archaeology Society (NAS) has information and advice for anyone interested in finding out how to get involved in maritime archaeology. You can join as a diver or non-diver and attend conferences and lectures as well as receiving information about the latest discoveries in our maritime heritage. The NAS also offers field schools and residential courses that provide training in underwater archaeological techniques and offer the chance to survey historic wrecks.