What tasks and activities does a Young Leader do? 

The precise tasks and activities carried out by a Young Leader will vary depending on the individual and your interests and goals, as discussed with your Mentor. You might start by observing and assisting  with sessions, helping with simple tasks such as setting up activities, supporting members, or demonstrating something you’ve  learned.  

Over time, you will have opportunities to plan parts of a session, lead small groups and contribute ideas.   

The responsibilities of all Young Leaders are: 

• Helping the Branch Leaders and Branch Assistants to plan and deliver archaeology- and history-themed activities for members aged 8-16. 

• Acting as a role model for YAC members aged 8-16. 

• Assisting members with activities such as archaeological tasks, challenges and crafts. 

• Arriving on time to YAC sessions and helping to set-up and pack-down activities. 

• Following the instructions and guidance of the YAC Leader and communicating promptly and professionally with the YAC team. 

• Completing a Safeguarding Induction with the YAC branch leader. 

• Observing the YAC Code of Conduct at all times. 

What will you gain by being a YAC Young Leader? 

Becoming a YAC Young Leader is a fantastic way to gain experience, learn from highly skilled YAC Leaders, and play an active role in the CBA’s youth initiatives. Every YAC is different but you may also have the opportunity to participate in exciting experiences, such as archaeological digs, field trips and museum visits. 

You will  also meet regularly with your Mentor to talk about your progress and goals and to review how you are getting on in your role. You will receive certificates that celebrate your milestones, the skills you developed and the support you provide to your branch.   

The skills and experiences you will gain as a Young Leader include: 

• working in a team 

• leadership skills 

• communicating with people of all ages and abilities 

• responsibility and time-keeping  

• planning and delivering safe and engaging learning experiences  

• developing your understanding of: 
  • supporting children and young people 
  • health and safety 
  • child protection, and 
  • (last but not least) archaeology! 

You will also receive two years of digital membership with the Council for British Archaeology, which includes access to British Archaeology  magazine.   

When you turn 18, you can apply to become a YAC Branch Assistant and take on more responsibility within your branch. It’s a great next step if  you’ve enjoyed volunteering and want to stay part of the YAC community as an adult volunteer!  

What are the requirements for becoming a YAC Young Leader? 

YAC Young Leaders must be at least 16 years old.  

Young Leaders come from a wide range of backgrounds. We’re looking for individuals who: 

• Enjoy working with children  

• Are enthusiastic about archaeology and history 

• Are willing to work in a team 

• Are keen to learn new things and develop their skills 

• Will follow the instructions and guidance of the YAC Leader 

• Can commit to attending monthly YAC sessions regularly  

How do I apply? 

1. Contact your local branch 

If you are not already at YAC member, you will need to find your local YAC branch on our interactive map. Click on the branch page to bring up information about the branch and then contact the Branch Leader by email or telephone using the contact details provided. 

2. Attend a session as an observer  

If your local YAC branch is accepting new Young Leaders, you will be invited to attend a YAC session to see how the club operates from the perspective of a volunteer.  

3. Have a follow-up conversation  

After the session, your Branch Leader will meet with you to discuss how YAC works and what being a Young Leader involves.  

4. Decide if you would like to apply  

Once you have had the chance to observe and learn more, you can decide whether you would like to take the next step and formally apply for the role of a YAC Young Leader.  

5. Complete our online application form 

If you decide to apply, you will be sent a link to an online application form. It’s simple and will ask you:  

• Your name, date of birth, contact details and pronouns  

• Why you would like to volunteer with YAC   

• Any experience that you feel is relevant (e.g. if you have been a YAC member before, what your interests are)  

• The contact details for two references. One must know you for at least a year, and the other for two years. If you have been a YAC member for over six months, you can ask your branch leader if they would be happy to be one of your references. Your references could be teachers, youth workers or other adults who know you well. References must not be family members. Make sure to tell your referees that the Council for British Archaeology (CBA) will be in touch. Overseas references are also accepted.  

If you live in Scotland, you will need to complete a PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) check consent form. This is a simple background check that helps make sure everyone taking part in YAC activities is safe. It is free for volunteers and only needs to be undertaken once while you are working as a YAC Young Leader. Please speak with a member of the branch for more information.  (Note: volunteers aged 16-17 in England, Wales or Northern Ireland do not need DBS/Access NI checks). 

Your application will be reviewed by the YAC Approval Panel and the CBA will send you and your Branch Leader a letter to confirm that you have been approved as a Young Leader. You will also be provided with a Welcome Pack which includes role information, key contacts, training requirements and practical guidance to help prepare you for your role as a Young Leader.