Background

The Trust's constitution includes the aim to 'promote the advancement of public education in the subject of Archaeology'. It achieves this through a range of learning opportunities - popular and academic publications, excavation visits, lectures, city walks, exhibitions, media coverage, welcoming volunteer assistance, to mention some - and through its Archaeology in Education Service (AES).

The AES was set up in the late 1980's to support, as a priority, the implementation of the new National Curriculum in Kent's schools. The AES is run by a part-time Education Officer who plans and participates in and/or manages all aspects of the service, engaging other CAT staff as appropriate. The focus of attention is still with Kent schools and in particular those in the Canterbury District.

The Kent Archaeological Society (KAS) is a stalwart supporter of the AES, having contributed to its core funding for many years and members of CAT are actively involved in the Society's Education Committee. The Friends of Canterbury Archaeological Trust also support the Trust's education work together with Canterbury City Council. The Trust has also been successful in winning grants for special educational projects, most notably from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Liaison with other History related agencies

The AES liaises closely with the Kent Advisory Service of Kent County Council’s (KCC) Department of Education and Libraries regarding the teaching of History in schools. On a national level, it liaises with the Education department of the Council for British Archaeology in particular and at a local level, with the Faculty of Education at Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury Museums and the University of Kent.

Aims of the AES

To promote Archaeology in general and Archaeology of the local area for the benefit of Kent schools in particular and Canterbury District schools as a priority. To work with other educational agencies as and when appropriate.

Priorities

One of the most economic ways to try and reach large numbers is to provide teachers with knowledge and the capability to use this with their pupils. In attempting to achieve this, priority is given to the production of resource materials and liaison with teacher training establishments and working teachers.