Archaeology & Experiential Learning Workshop for Adults (6 Weeks)

The School of Irish Archaeology presents every Saturday for 6 weeks an introductory course to archaeology for adults through the means of an experiential form of learning. Our course will focus on the process behind archaeology to inform its participants about how we disseminate the story of the past. We will explore ancient crafts and technologies by carrying out experimental hands-on archaeological workshops. The course will include informative and interactive sessions whereby we will use the material remains of the past including hands-on excavations and field techniques to explore this fascinating subject. The learning outcomes will offer adults a broader knowledge and awareness of the discipline of archaeology from a theoretical and practical standpoint, tracing the practice from its’ origins to how it is executed today. This exciting course focuses on the rich cultural heritage on the island of Ireland.

The topics covered will include: 

• An Introduction to Archaeology – an overview of the origins and the practice of archaeology in Ireland
• Archaeological Fieldwork & Methods
• History of Agriculture & Bread Making Workshop
• The Bronze Age & Axe-Casting Workshop
• Case Studies Focusing on the Development of Historic Urban Centres in Ireland
• Christianity and it’s impact on Ireland – metalworking

In our last week we will take a fieldtrip to the Medieval Town of Trim in County Meath. We will also include in this excursion a visit to the beautiful and scenic site of Bective Abbey on the bend of the Boyne. During the day we will take a closer look at the evolution and development of the town of Trim through its history and archaeology from prehistory to medieval times. The excursion led by Mark Kelly who studied and completed his MA  dissertation on the town of Trim. Over the course of 5 years Mark worked and led excavations in the town of  Trim as an archaeologist. Mark will take you to some of the known and unknown archaeological hotspots around the town. This will then be followed by a visit to the Cistercian Abbey at Bective. 

* In this week you will require your own transport

Course Day & Time: Saturday Morning (10am – 2pm)

Dates: 25th Jan, 1st Feb, 8th Feb, 15th Feb, 22nd Feb, & 1st March

Cost: €300

Course Format: In class and on-site with tutor

Duration: 6 weeks (limited availability)

Tutors: Mark Kelly MA & Averil White MSc– The School of Irish Archaeology