A new club for budding Young Archaeologists’ has recently been launched in Leeds for children interested in archaeology, history and exploring the past.
During the fun interactive sessions children aged 8-16 will get the opportunity to meet professional archaeologists, learn about the techniques archaeologists use to investigate sites, explore what objects they may find from different periods in history and undertake experimental archaeology projects.
Leeds Young Archaeologist Club (YAC) has been set up following the very successful Middleton Park History Detective Club, which was funded as part of the Parks for People regeneration scheme. This scheme saw the popular South Leeds Park being transformed, with new footpaths, signage, a bandstand and the construction of a fabulous new visitor center, which is the venue for the Leeds YAC.
Over the next year this vibrant club will include sessions on prehistory, pottery (where the children will get the opportunity to make their own pots), memorials, food from the past (where the children will make butter) and textiles. There are also some field trips planned, including to The Leeds Discovery Centre and an archaeologically themed Christmas Party!
The Young Archaeologist Club is part of the Council for British Archaeology, an educational charity and this new Leeds branch provides a valuable addition to the 65 branches situated across the county. The club is ran by a team of dedicated volunteers and lead by professional archaeologist Louise Martin who said:
“It has been my vision for a long time to launch a Young Archaeologist Club in the Leeds area. As a child I loved to explore and investigate the past, although there were few opportunities where I could undertake practical and fun activities. I am delighted that with the help of Leeds City Council and the Council for British Archaeology, we have been able to set up this club. We have some really exciting and fun sessions planned, where we hope to inspire and engage the archaeologists of the future.”
The Leeds Young Archaeologist Club is held on the third Saturday of every month, with the next session on 18 October. The sessions are held at Middleton Park Visitor Centre from 10am-12pm, with the club costing only £6 for the whole year. Children are welcome to come and try their first session for free but there are limited spaces so booking is essential to avoid disappointment. To find out more information, book your free taster session or sign up to be a Leeds YAC member please contact Louise, Megan or Sarah leedsyac@gmail.com. Follow what we are up to on Facebook: Leeds YAC and Twitter: @YAC_Leeds.
