The Scottish Field School of Archaeology

The Field School is an independent charity, governed by a committee comprised of representatives of CSA and the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland. It was founded in 1947 by the Scottish Group of the Council for British Archaeology, the body that was eventually to become CSA. At a time when the small number of professional archaeologists in Scotland meant it was extremely difficult to respond adequately to unexpected finds across the country, the idea was to provide training for non-archaeologists who would then be able, in an amateur capacity, to assist with and eventually conduct excavations as the need arose.

"Accommodation will be on military lines - in a barn with palliases and blankets. - Food will be plentiful but not dainty. Hours will be those of ordinary labour with overtime for measuring after the POWs go away in the evening." (1947 Field School at Milton, Beattock, Dumfriesshire)

Excavations were carried out by the Field School until 1992, at which point changed circumstances and funding levels meant the structure of the School was no longer viable.

As a result of a generous bequest from the late Miss Josephine Bennett, the Scottish Field School of Archaeology Committee has been reconvened. The Committee for 2004 comprises: Stephen Carter (Chairman), Geoff Waters (Secretary), Liam Murray (Treasurer), and Stratford Halliday (Society of Antiquaries of Scotland representative).

The Committee has decided to use the annual interest from Miss Bennett's bequest to offer bursaries to individuals (over the age of 16), enabling them to take advantage of training opportunities in field archaeology. It is felt that assisting individuals in this way to develop experience and skills by attending a suitable training course, whether in Scotland or elsewhere, is fully in tune with the original ethos of the Field School and with Miss Bennett's wishes.

There are no application forms as such. Preference will be given to members of archaeological and local historical societies or groups in Scotland. Applicants are invited to contact the Field School Committee c/o the CSA office, giving full details of the course they wish to attend and how it would benefit them. The CSA office can advise on what courses are available.