Now that the Castilly Henge excavation has drawn to a close, we wanted to take the opportunity to reflect on this landmark project – especially the impact of the outreach programme which our team ran as part of it.
It was extremely unique and unusual to have the opportunity to run such a wide-reaching outreach programme for an excavation like this. The aim was to enable as many members of the local community as possible to learn about the heritage on their doorstep and see behind the scenes of a dig.
A significant number of volunteers were directly involved working alongside professional archaeologists, and our team also ran a huge range of outreach activities, tours and educational workshops for local schools, community groups and other organisations.
As a result of the project…
Nearly 1500 people actively engaged with the dig through school trips, community group visits, talks, volunteering and the public open day.
That included…
Nearly 1000 people who came to a story cafe, talk or open day about Castilly Henge.
Over 140 people who took part in a community group visit or NHS Social Prescribing session as part of the excavation.
Here is what some of their group leaders said…
“Participants found the historical content fascinating and really enjoyed visiting an active excavation site.”
“We especially loved the practical elements of the session, from sieving soil to using Polaroid cameras.”
“You are both fantastic facilitators, and we always enjoy our time at your groups.”
More than 80 volunteers and two training internship placements who gave over 2000 hours of their time, working alongside professional archaeologists to directly support the excavation.
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- 50% of volunteers working on the site were not aware of Castilly Henge before the excavation.
- For 66% of volunteers, it was their first experience of an archaeological dig.
- 100% of volunteers said they learnt something new from the experience.
Here is what some of them said…
“I loved every minute of my volunteering and you provided a great insight into your work. The combined agencies and charities working together seemed seamless to an outsider – I’m sure it was very difficult to organise!”
“I enjoyed helping on a variety of tasks and it was interesting to witness the archaeological excavations taking place.”
“I am looking forward to finding out what significance Castilly Henge held in its time. Overall, the experience has been fantastic.”
This is what one of the people undertaking a training internship said…
“Thank you so much for the opportunity to be part of the Castilly Henge team of volunteers. The placement has been incredible and I am coming away from the experience with so much pride.”
The training internships were open to those not currently in education, employment or training.
Over 340 children from local primaries, secondaries and home education groups who took part in an outreach workshop at the site.
This is what some of the school children said…
“I loved seeing the dig and learning about history from what they find.”
“It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to witness history being dug up right in front of our eyes!”
“It was like nothing I expected, there was a lot more carefully brushing the dirt away and not that much digging full pelt into the ground.”
This is what their teachers said…
“The archaeology workshop was brilliant for encouraging students to ask historical questions, use their knowledge and understanding to justify their answers and to generally promote enjoyment in history.”
“Caroline’s knowledge and enthusiasm were exceptional — she explained complex ideas clearly, answered questions with real expertise, and brought the history of the site to life in a way that captivated both students and staff.”
“I’ve not been aware of Castilly Henge and it only came to our attention, and the attention of local families, thanks to this project. We’d like to thank Cornwall Heritage Trust not only for running the wonderful workshops but for also helping with our transport costs. Without this help, the children would have missed out on a valuable learning opportunity and the realisation that they live so close to these ancient monuments.”
As part of this, five schools took part in a collaborative workshop with artist Robin Sullivan to create cyanotype-covered wicker sculptures inspired by the monument.
This is what some of the school children said…
“I enjoyed making the blueprint art.”
“I loved the blue prints art as I’d never done anything like that before.”
Here’s what their teachers said…
“The children really enjoyed the activities and getting involved in various arts and crafts.”
It was so special to be involved in the project and we’re hugely grateful to everyone who helped make it possible.
The project was a collaboration between Historic England, Cornwall Archaeological Society and Cornwall Heritage Trust.
The excavation was funded and directed by Historic England and supported by staff from Cornwall Archaeological Unit. Volunteering and outreach were made possible through a £42,990 grant to Cornwall Archaeological Society from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and a £10,000 grant from Historic England.
Support our Castilly Henge Appeal
Cornwall Heritage Trust is currently trying to raise the £50,000 needed to acquire and secure the future Castilly Henge so that it can be protected for future generations and freely accessible to the public all year round.
This is a rare opportunity to ensure Castilly Henge is protected and that everyone can enjoy it once and for all. Every donation makes a huge difference.
