Two public outreach projects led by BU staff have been nominated for the 2025 Archaeological Achievement Awards, in the Public Dissemination or Presentation category, presented by the Council for British Archaeology.
Derek (right) and Lawrence (left), Hosts of Career in RuinsCareer in Ruins, a multiplatform podcast and YouTube series, is co-created by Bournemouth University’s Dr Derek Pitman, Associate Professor in Archaeology and Anthropology, and Dr Lawrence Shaw, Visiting Researcher and Lead Historic Environment Advisor for Foresty England. Through interviews, field reports, and discussions, the series has built a dedicated following by exploring the realities of working in archaeology, showcasing new discoveries, and celebrating diverse career paths. It has a global audience and aims to promote archaeology to multiple generations and backgrounds.
Dr Derek Pitman said, “it’s a genuine honour to be shortlisted for an Archaeological Achievement award and to have two of our outreach initiatives nominated is a true testament to the strength and quality of archaeology at Bournemouth University and a reflection of our collective passion in sharing our discipline with the wider public. The Archaeology team at BU are passionate about sharing our rich human past with the world as well as highlighting the diverse and exciting world of becoming an archaeologist.”
Meg (Right) Jon, hosts of StratmatesStratmates, meanwhile, is a dynamic Instagram-and Tiktok based series produced by Meg Russell, Lecturer in Biological Anthropology, and Jon Milward, Project Officer. Presented in an engaging “episode” format, Stratmates highlights archaeological finds, addresses challenges within the discipline, and sparks conversations about equality and wellbeing in the field. Its approachable style has made it a standout example of digital outreach and youth engagement with heritage.
Meg Russell adds, “Being shortlisted is a fantastic achievement for Archaeology at BU. Jon and I feel so honoured that our educational archaeology videos have been recognised by CBA, and we are very excited to represent BU in Belfast! Our content is all about the students and community at BU, so being recognised is truly down to our wonderful archaeology students and colleagues. Being able to share our archaeological discoveries in the field with our wider social media community has been such a joy, and we are thrilled to have made such wide-reaching, meaningful connections”
The Archaeological Achievement Awards celebrate innovation, excellence, and impact across the heritage sector, recognising projects and individuals who bring archaeology to new audiences and advance our understanding of the past.
This year’s winners will be announced at a ceremony in Belfast in November 2025.
