Collaboratory Researcher Profiles
Project Title: Preserving the Past, Inspiring the Future: Delivering a Youth Transformation Programme for volunteers at the Great Central Railway (GCR), Leicestershire
What were you doing before starting this PhD?
After graduating from university with a degree in Archaeology, I created the Derbyshire Scout Archaeology Badge, which is a 5 badge programme engaging Scouts (4-24) from across the UK, focusing on Archaeology. However, it is a voluntary role and project, so to pay the bills I followed a childhood dream and joined the Merchant Navy as a marine engineer, and got some amazing opportunities from travelling to Gibraltar to taking part in Exercise Joint Warrior off the coast of Scotland. After two years I moved back to Derbyshire and took up the role of a secondary school teacher. The whole time running the Archaeology badge and team, which has taken me across the UK leading activities, camps and digs as well as speaking at conferences showing other industry members how best to engage young people.
What motivated you to apply for this specific PhD project?
I’ve spent my whole adult life being constantly drawn back to archaeology, because of it’s plethora of subjects and topics that can be investigated and studied. Everything from ancient languages to isotope analysis. Most importantly I realized early on an issue with youth engagement in archaeology and heritage. An issue the industry is aware of, however not many people have found sustainable solutions. When I saw the opportunity to do this PhD, finding actual concrete sustainable frameworks on an issue I’ve spent the last decade working on, I jumped at the chance.
What difference do you hope to make in Loughborough through this research?
Give youngsters local to the GCR an opportunity to try something new, discover something exciting, and engage with a heritage railway right on their doorstep. Whilst providing the GCR with an opportunity to share their love for the railway, and gain a sustainable framework for youth engagement.
What do you hope to be doing in 5 years’ time?
Simply put, continuing to engage young people in archaeology and heritage. Practically, I would love to lead the education department of a museum.