The School of Irish Archaeology - Heritage Experts | Heritage in Schools

The School of Irish Archaeology

Mark Kelly 2
Mark Kelly 3
Mark Kelly 4
Subject(s):
History
Curriculum Strands:
Story (History), Local Studies (History), Early people and ancient societies (History), Life, society, work and culture in the past (History), Continuity and change over time (History)
Counties catered for:
Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Meath, Westmeath
Classes catered for:
All Classes

Book in-person visit


As Ireland’s only archaeology school, The School of Irish Archaeology are experienced leaders in the field of cultural heritage, and are passionate about connecting our past with our future generations. We bring history to life, through active-learning both inside and outside the classroom, providing tailor-made archaeology programmes and interactive workshops for primary, secondary and adult education. Our curriculum-based programmes offer children an opportunity to fully understand the fascinating subject of archaeology and its profession. We achieve this through a series of workshops with our flagship Big Dig activity being the most popular with schools. We work in an exciting and unique way helping children participate together in small class groups and develop critical thinking skills. Our aim is to allow children to understand the process behind archaeology through an exciting, fun and dynamic experience.

In-person school visits

Mobile Outdoor Archaeological Museum - THE BIG DIG. The workshop gives children the chance to experience what it is like to be an archaeologist by learning how to excavate the remains of a Viking house. As they dig through the site, participants will unearth Viking treasures and artefacts dating back 1,000 years. They will learn about the lives of our Viking ancestors as history is brought to life.

***Please note: the standard Heritage in Schools rates do not apply to The Big Dig. Current rates are available from info@sia.ie.

The team

Mark Kelly

Mark has worked as an archaeologist for the past 21 years and holds an MA in Archaeological Practice. He currently runs the award winning School of Irish Archaeology. He caters for all aged groups nationwide running archaeology camps, afterschool programmes, heritage events and festivals.

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Kornelia Barthel

Kornelia is an experienced educator who is enthusiastic about teaching history in an accurate yet fun, accessible way to children thereby helping them to cultivate a confident, well-grounded, tolerant and critical way of thinking. She believes that by engaging in discussions about changing cultural and historical traditions she can help foster an appreciation for similarities and differences in our diverse world - past and present.

Kornelia has extensive experience in leading a team of educators and facilitators at different SIA camps over the years. As a dedicated Heritage Specialist, Kornelia is committed to delivering engaging and impactful educational experiences. She thrives on working with the local teachers, ensuring each workshop is tailored, memorable and effective.

Kornelia holds a Masters Degree in Political Science and is fluent in English and German.

Averil White

Averil has an MSc in Experimental Archaeology and Material Culture (UCD) and a BA (Hons) in Archaeology and History of Art (UCD). Averil is incredibly passionate about Irish archaeology and gains great satisfaction from sharing her knowledge with both children and adults alike. She joined the School of Irish Archaeology in May 2023 and is currently involved in primary and secondary education along with heritage events.

Testimonials

  • "A wonderful experience for the whole school. It was a pleasure dealing with Mark and his team. I would recommend this workshop to other schools." - St Mary’s NS, Limerick
  • "We were very impressed with how the day went and the children absolutely loved it! All the boys were full of chat of the artefacts that they found!" - St Patrick's Boys' NS, Dublin
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  • "Children really enjoyed the ‘Big Dig’. They would not have learned as well without the hands on interaction and the time for talk/ discussion with the specialist team." - Nicker NS, Limerick
  • "An absolutely fantastic experience" - ST. Joseph's NS, Wicklow
  • "An interesting engaging activity for all pupils. Just great!" - Scoil Fhursa, Dublin
  • "The whole procedure was fantastic. Everyone who was in contact with me was very helpful in organising the day. The children absolutely loved the day and the teachers were very complimentary of the lessons put on by the specialists." - St Patricks NS, Diswellstown, Dublin

Additional Information

  • Provides in-person visits
  • Caters for special needs
  • Provides practical/hands-on activities
  • Provides field trips

Contact Details

Mobile:
087 7556808
Email:
info@sia.ie
Website:
www.sia.ie