Abi McLean

Young Archaeologists’ Club Communications Officer (maternity cover) |

I am standing in as YAC Communications Officer and Editor of Young Archaeologist magazine whilst Nicky Milsted is on maternity leave.

Being the Editor of Young Archaeologist is great fun. It is my job to write articles, find people who might like to contribute to the magazine, find photos and pictures to include, organise book reviews and find lots of great prizes to give away! I love putting together a magazine that I hope young people who love archaeology will find fun and fascinating to read. If you fancy writing for the magazine then get in touch!

I also compile the YAC Pass, the Young Archaeologists’ Club brilliant booklet filled with special offers for our members. As Communications Officer I also receive lots of emails and letters from young people interested in archaeology and I am always happy to answer questions.

I have been interested in history and archaeology since I was little and had my own bit of garden when I was little that I was allowed to dig up! I found lots of pottery and loved showing off my finds to my mum and dad. I didn’t go on to study archaeology at university as I was desperate to study History of Art. I did my degree at the University of York and loved it, especially learning all about Anglo Saxon art because it involved lots about the Sutton Hoo discoveries!

After my degree I did an MA in Museum and Gallery Studies at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne. I then worked in museums in Sheffield, York and Hull where I was lucky enough to work with some fabulous archaeological collections.

I think it's great that so many young people are interested in archaeology and love working for the Young Archaeologists’ Club, I only wish that I'd known about YAC when I was a little girl!