Learning with Suffolk County Council Archaeological Service is an exciting way to explore archaeology and local history. We promote hands-on learning in archaeology for all periods of history including Stone Age, Romans, Anglo-Saxon, medieval and post-medieval (including Tudor and Victorian), using real artefacts excavated from Suffolk to connect with our past, understand our present and shape the future.
In-classroom sessions are specifically designed for children of primary school age and has been tailored to add value to the history national curriculum, in the following ways:
- cross-curricular learning
- inspiring curiosity and critical thinking
- understand the methods of historical enquiry, including archaeological techniques
- what artefacts can tell you about the people living in the past.
- depth of time and concepts of continuity and change
- link to local history and connections to national history
The sessions are taught by an Outreach Officer who you will come to your school. Karen Howard has 18 years experience as a qualified primary school teacher in Suffolk and history coordinator with practical archaeology experience on big community projects. Karen has an enhanced DBS check.
A variety of archaeology activities are on offer that can be adapted to suit a group's needs. See below Archaeology Detectives, Archaeology Explorers and Archaeology Investigator packages for examples of what is on offer.
If you are interested in anything bespoke, please get in touch at archaeology.education@suffolk.gov.uk
Archaeology Packages Examples
Archaeology Explorers - All Periods
£280
Two identical 2.25hour sessions same day. Suitable for classes/groups of up to 30 children per session.
- Introduction to archaeology
- Interactive handling session with real finds from all periods (Stone Age, Roman, Anglo-Saxon, medieval and post-medieval)
- Understanding why archaeology is hidden below ground and its stratigraphy
Each student will receive an 'Archaeology Explorer' certificate
Archaeology Investigators: Stone Age, Roman or Anglo-Saxon
£280
Two identical 2.25hour sessions same day. Suitable for classes/groups of up to 30 children per session.
- Tailored to a specific time period - either Stone Age, Roman or Anglo-Saxon
- Introduction to archaeology
- Interactive handling session with real finds from specific period
- Significant excavations in Suffolk relating to specific period
Each student will receive an 'Archaeology Investigator' certificate
Archaeology Detectives
£280
Two identical 2.25hour sessions same day. Suitable for classes/groups of up to 30 children per session.
- Introduction to archaeology
- Interactive handling session with real finds from all periods
- Be an archaeologist - sieving/excavating activity investigating objects
- Object identification by period and function
Each student will receive an 'Archaeology Detective' certificate
Booking Terms and Conditions
To make an enquiry to book please email Karen Howard at archaeology.education@suffolk.gov.uk
After you have an agreed date, bookings will only be confirmed once an invoice has been raised in advance.
Cancellation or Changes:
- 15 days or more – no charge for cancellation and we can accommodate an alternative date
- 14 days or less – full charge will be applicable for cancellation and the invoice must be paid. A new booking will need to be made.
During the sessions the school must provide the following to ensure the best experience possible:
- provide a teacher to supervise children
- provide an open space (e.g. assembly hall) as the session revolves around hands on activities
- provide a parking space near the school.