SoTMAS undertakes a range of fieldwork activities. Tha main ones are excavations and surveys. The latter includes resisitivity surveys using the society's own meter, but a survey could be something like a hedgerow survey. Other forms of fieldwork involve visits to potential sites and fieldwalking. A browse through our pages of previous fieldwork will provide examples of the work we do.

Anyone who is a member and over the age of 18 can attend any of our fieldwork activities. These restrictions are required for insurance and safeguarding purposes.

Yes. We want all our members to engage fully with archaeology, and though you have no, or little experience, we will ensure you work with a more experienced member, to show you the ropes, or provide you with training where necessary.

No. We fully understand that work, family, health and age can affect how much time we can devote to archaeology. So if you can only attend one event a season, then that is fine. Again if you can only attend a dig once a week or even once a month, then you will still be welcome. A number of members already either have large intervals between attending a dig or attend more frequently but only for part of the day. Whatever time you can give is welcome and appreciated.

Contact the Site Director, Winston Hollins, either by email through this website or speak to him directly at a society event. Be sure to include an email and phone number so that you recieve all the details relating to the fieldwork and that you can be contacted if the event is postponed, usually due to adverse weather.

The digging season runs from April to the end of October each year. We dig Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday of every week during the season. The day starts at 10am and finishes at 4pm. Other fieldwork activities will have their own dates and times, and are circulated to members as and when they are arranged.

Archaeology fieldwork frequently takes place well away from any form of local ammenities, which should be considered before you decide to attend any fieldwork. When you indicate that you wish to attend a fieldwork activity you will be provided with details such as a precise location, directions to the site and information relating to parking. Plus any other details that may be specific to that piece of fieldwork.

Firstly, remember we are in Britain and the weather is considerably variable. So make sure that you dress for the weather and bring additional warm and waterproof clothing in case it should rain. A hat and suncream are also recommended, particularly for the sunnier days. The other essential is strong/sturdy footware. Gloves are also a good idea as is a kneeler. If the event is planned to last all day, then some lunch and plenty to drink will be needed, and something to sit on (e.g. a camping chair) is generally useful. Finally, if you are attending a dig, don't forget your trowel!

The trowel you require is a "WHS 4inch" trowel. These can be obtained from Past Horizons, a website that specialises in tools for archaeologists, as well as ebay, Amazon etc. DiY stores do not always stock this particular sized trowel, so online is your best bet.

Yes. We do ask that students register as members, at a reduced rate, so that, as members, they are covered by our insurance policy.

No. The insurance costs for fieldwork activities is part of your membership (which is currently free).