The Big Dig for schools

In this hour-long session, pupils will:

• learn what archaeology is and how archaeological investigation helps us understand history
• excavate their own trench using proper archaeological techniques
• uncover and handle genuine artefacts from different periods of London’s past
• work collaboratively to discuss their finds, interpret evidence and identify what the site may have been
• reflect on how objects can reveal stories about everyday life in the past
• have all equipment provided, including hard hats, high‑vis vests, trowels, brushes and activity sheets

To book one class, follow the online booking process. To book two classes on the same day, please call the Box Office on 020 7001 9844.

For bookings made over the phone, payments must be completed via an online payment link using a credit or debit card.

For both options you will receive a separate follow-up email with a timetabled package that includes arrival times for your session and lunch tables for your group.

Sessions begin at 10.30am and 12pm. Each session lasts 60 minutes. Please arrive 10 minutes before your session starts.

In the session there will be an introduction to the activity, substantial time digging in the bespoke trenches and a debrief to discover the artefacts you have found.

You'll find everything you need to know on our access page.

If you'd like to visit other parts on the museum please see our schools plan your visit page.

There are two sessions a day. Each session can accommodate up to 30 pupils from one school. If you are booking one class the cost is £150, for two classes from the same school the cost is £200.

We recommend the following staff/pupil ratios:

• Key stage 2 – 1:6
• Key stage 3 – 1:10

Feel free to take as many photos as you like of your group for educational use, just make sure they are taken without flash or a tripod and include only your own group.

Please note refunds are not available for this event. Sessions are limited, with only 20 bookings available across 10 schools days. Because of the limited number of sessions, we expect it will be tricky for us to reschedule bookings if your school is no longer able to attend.

Before booking, we’d really encourage you to double-check your school calendar. Things like sports days, trips and end-of-term activities often crop up towards the end of the summer term and we’d hate for you to miss out because of a clash.

If you do need to cancel, please let us know as soon as you can. It really helps us to offer those places to other schools who might be waiting.

Cancellations need to be confirmed in writing, so please email us at [email protected] as well as giving our Box Office a call on 020 7001 9844.

This activity is best suited for year 4 to year 8 pupils.