What a load of rubbish!

Matthew Moss students taking part in the University of Manchester Museum’s Midden Project

1 More Image(s) In Gallery

Who says archaeology is old rubbish? Well in Matthew Moss students case, it was just that!

Our students have just finished taking part in the University of Manchester Museum’s Midden Project. Our students buried some items in a Midden heap last year to study how things decay over time.

Various objects, made from different materials, where recorded, photographed then buried into a special area outside the museum. Recently they returned to dig up the objects and record how the items have changed.

This has led to the museum creating a display in the brand new Archaeology and Ancient History Gallery in the museum. It is a fantastic way of finishing the project, to be rewarded with such a display in one the finest museums in the north of England.

We are the only school in Greater Manchester to have had such unprecedented access to the museums facilities. Mrs Martin, who along with Mr Down, co-ordinated the project with the museum, said: ‘’It has been a fabulous opportunity for our students, and a privilege to work with the specialist staff from the museum.’’ ‘’They saw how the museum preserves ancient artefacts, receiving expert guidance with hands-on activities.’’

The archaeology journey started with a visit to Matthew Moss of Manchester Museum’s archaeologist, Brian Sitch. After the initial visit, Healey Dell was the focus of our young archaeology group. Many of these sessions where led by Prof Rob Isherwood, from Community Archaeology North West. Mr Down said: ‘’Rob made a real impact with the project, he made the past come to life.’’ ‘’I think it was Rob’s enthusiasm for archaeology that rubbed off our students, it really made the difference.’’

The link with Manchester Museum’s staff is going to be on going. Mrs Martin said: ‘’We have built up a really good working relationship with the conservators and archaeologists at the museum.’’

The staff at the museum, Velson Orry, Sam Sportun and Cat Lumb provided Matthew Moss with an insight into archaeology and the associated process. ‘’The level of commitment and enthusiasm for the project has been really rewarding.’’ ‘’Our students have represented our school and Rochdale brilliantly.’’