Irish Archaeological Research Digital Magazine

Too cool for
When Irish Archaeology
Research was established, the
most important element of our
ethos was the communication
of archaeology to the general
public, and in particular the
younger generation, so that
they may develop an
appreciation for the rich
heritage that surrounds them.
As archaeology is becoming
more integrated into the
secondary level school
school, not!
Christina O'Regan, Fieldwork and Education Director of IAR,
describes how engaging in archaeological activities helps
children learn about their past.
Irish Archaeological Research Issue 2 Jan 2012
curriculum, organising archaeology workshops, delivered in a school environment, is the ideal way of initiating
hundreds of young people into this exciting subject. There are several, if not dozens, of groups all over the UK
that bring an extra dimension to learning through specifically designed workshops and activities. These
workshops can aid literacy, numeracy and communication skills as well as making education more enjoyable.
Unfortunately, there is a deficit of these groups in the Republic, and indeed in Northern Ireland, though the
Young Archaeology Club (YAC) does provide an outlet for interested youths in Belfast and Downpatrick.
I had been contacted by friends working in education to see if there was a way of bringing archaeology into their
schools. Using the techniques adopted by those UK‐based groups, we devised our own series of activities and
events that can be adapted for each age group.
Students at St. Aidans analyse some Post‐medieval bottles and pottery
Our first foray into school workshops was in November 2011 when we were contacted by the librarian at Plunkett
College, Dublin. This school is one of approximately 30 in the Republic which participates in the Junior Certificate
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