University of Reading’s Inspiring Archaeologist Nominated for ‘Archaeologist of the Year’

An archaeologist who helps budding excavators dig up archaeological sites has been recognised for a top award.

Amanda Clarke, Associate Professor at the University of Reading’s Department of Archaeology, has been nominated as Current Archaeology’s Archaeologist of the Year for helping students excavate sites up and down the UK since she joined Reading in 1997.

Under her watch, more than 2,000 students have graduated from the University armed with the skills needed to become professionally trained archaeologists.

Amanda said: “It’s a joy to teach skills I love to people I care about. To build a field school from scratch and give so many people the opportunity to discover the trowel has given me great pleasure. Each year, I am truly envious when I watch our students experience the excitement of excavation for the first time. 

“We must continue to find new ways to explore, explain, and find solutions for the future of archaeology. The skills I share with my students will take archaeology forward in new and exciting directions.”

Amanda has directed field schools located at Silchester Roman Town, the Vale of Pewsey and, most recently, at Silchester (Roman bathhouse), Islay (various sites), and Cookham (Anglo-Saxon settlement and associated cemetery).

During these excavations, Amanda developed an assessed Field School module that delivers a transformative experience for Reading students (and others), combining excellent research with professional training.