Plain digging

The sun was shining on the Level 1 Blue Skies students from St Aldhelm’s Academy on Thursday 27th May as they visited a WW1 training ground on Salisbury Plain. The group was lucky enough to work with Wessex Archaeology and veterans involved with Breaking Ground Heritage, a group that helps veterans recover from their injuries.

Everyone had the opportunity to search the area using geophysical equipment that is able to create a picture of what is under the surface. There was also a test pit where students were able to excavate some earth to look for hidden treasures – some old, spent cartridge cases were found but luckily they were safe. The third activity involved working with the veterans who spoke to the group about teamwork and surveillance. The groups had to ‘recce’ the area for hidden objects. Someone in each group was dressed in a replica WW1 Australian wool uniform – not so good when the temperature was 29 degrees! We were treated to ‘ration packs’ for lunch which were delicious.

Hermione, 12, said she really enjoyed learning about archaeology and WW1.

Mai, an archaeologist assisting us, expressed her delight that the young people were obviously enjoying their day looking at different aspects of teamwork in various situations.

Thank you Wessex Archaeology and Breaking Ground Heritage