Across our region, heritage professionals (including archaeologists, archivists, historians, architects, planners and museum staff) conserve and care for our local heritage, and present it to the public. We have very close links with local heritage organisations, and many of our students find (usually unpaid) volunteering opportunities with them, gaining valuable work experience.
There are numerous opportunities for volunteers at the Great North Museum (on campus) and other local museums. Beamish Open Air Museum is also keen to attract volunteers, and lots of our students have found placements there. The same goes for Bede’s World.
The Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) is a voluntary scheme to record artefacts found by members of the public. Students can volunteer to help the local PAS finds liaison officers based in Durham and Newcastle. PAS volunteers learn to identify, record, and photograph artefacts to a national standard, so this is a very useful way to learn key archaeological skills.
Students interested in working with children can volunteer to help us run the Newcastle University branch of the Young Archaeologists Club (YAC). This meets once a month and is run by Dr Jane Webster.
Our unique Heritage City website provides information about research opportunities within the historic city of Newcastle. Students taking up Heritage City projects work closely with members of staff from these organisations, which include Newcastle City Council, English Heritage and Tyne & Wear Museums and Archives.
There is also the possibility of carrying out a work placement with Pre-Construct Archaeology Ltd at their London or Durham offices.