Can I go on a dig?

It is often quite difficult to get onto a dig, especially if you are aged 16 or under. But don’t panic! There are some opportunities open to young people…

‘Dig It’

Each summer, Young Archaeologist magazine runs ‘Dig It’ excavation competitions for YAC UK members to win the chance to work on a real dig! To enter you have to be a YAC UK member. Find out how to join YAC UK here.

YAC Branches

Some of our YAC Branches are lucky enough to work on real excavations. Joining a YAC Branch can be a great way to get on a dig. Please note joining YAC UK does not give you automatic access to a local YAC Branch and places at YAC Branches can be limited.

Council for British Archaeology (CBA)

The CBA lists digs that are open to the public on their website. Please note that some of these digs are only suitable for people aged 18 and over. However, you may be able to work on some digs if you take a parent or guardian with you. Most of the digs listed are training excavations and do charge people who go on them. See their Fieldwork page in the Briefing section to find out more.

Festival of British Archaeology

Some archaeological sites may hold open days during the annual Festival of British Archaeology in July, giving you the chance to have a go at digging. You can find out about activities and events taking in your area by looking at What’s On (events listings are available from May each year).

TORC

Check out TORC or Archaeology Online to find details of societies near you.

Community Projects

Community projects also run and may be able to take younger people. See the CBA’s Community Archaeology Forum to find Projects.

Scottish Archaeology Month

And don’t forget Scottish Archaeology Month! It takes place every September and is organised by Archaeology Scotland.

Archaeological Societies

You could try contacting your local archaeological society. Some societies run excavations for volunteers. However, you may also find that these are only suitable for people aged 18 and over.