Excavation Programme
This programme offers a practical and immersive experience with a two week trip to Belgium for hands-on excavation with a team of world renowned archaeologists. It will also encourage veterans to use mindful techniques and to engage in archaeology with a powerful emphasis on wellbeing.
In addition to giving participants the chance to apply archaeological skills and techniques in practice on the site of one of the most famous land battles in history, this year-round programme also focuses on the theory and history of the battle which affected almost every regiment in the British Army. Participants will also have the opportunity to enjoy ‘in person’ museum trips, with visits to the National Army Museum and the British Museum. Taking place in Belgium, international collaboration is prominent, VSMP will mix with individuals of different nationalities and backgrounds.
The real life, immersive nature of this programme gives participants a number of important benefits and life skills, including team building, time keeping, travel and adjusting to new environments.
As with all our programmes, the Excavation Programme places a strong emphasis on improving mental wellbeing and offers the space for Veterans to engage with a new group of people, archaeologists, students & international VSMP. Our professional and experienced Wellbeing & Support team will be available to provide help and assistance to our participants whenever they may need it.
Furthermore, this programme gives participants the chance to gain recognised academic credits from the University of Utrecht.
The Excavation Programme is a collaboration between Wellbeing and Support specialists, heritage institutions & archaeologists. It offers a clear educational and goal setting structure that gives participants the best chance of maximising their opportunity with us, with the main objective of improving their wellbeing.
This programme will be delivered with two museum trips in May and June, followed by a two-week trip to Belgium in July. This will offer veterans & serving personnel the chance to develop lasting relationships, learn something new and discover a whole new world of archaeology & mindfulness. Virtual ‘Hangouts’ will take place throughout the year with exciting archaeological content and different themes to explore. There will be follow up sessions and a reunion showcase at the National Army Museum to finish the programme.
