Kent school pupils turn archaeologists for the day
February 2026 – Budding local historians enjoyed a closer look at Kent history last month, stepping into the shoes of an archaeologist for the day following a locally-inspired competition.
Odin Sunde (10) of Sutton Valence School and Fergus Spreckley (11) of Sutton Valence Primary School won the chance to spend the day shadowing experts at Kent Archaeological Society (KAS) as part of a community initiative celebrating the recent discovery of a collection of Late Iron Age and Early Roman artefacts that hit the headlines.
Uncovered during early works on a new development by local housebuilder, Fernham Homes, the discoveries included intricately crafted jewellery, surviving textile, decorated pottery, and one of the oldest coins minted in Britain. The significance of the findings has since inspired a series of initiatives to commemorate Sutton Valence’s rich archaeological heritage, which also includes a dedicated art trail within the first phase being unveiled this year.
Contrary to their expectations of digging in the mud, Odin and Fergus discovered the many ways archaeologists work behind the scenes and use modern technology to bring history to life.
"I had in my head a day of digging in the mud for treasure, but it was much more varied than I could have imagined," said Odin. "We got access to archive collections and handled Roman-era artefacts, including silver coins, buttons, and fragments from a Roman villa. It was fascinating to see how each object helped build a picture of Kent’s history over almost 2,000 years."
The session also introduced pupils to modern archaeological techniques. "We learned how digital models can let you study and share historic buildings and artefacts without risking any damage. Seeing how 3D models let you examine objects in such intricate detail really showed me how technology brings history to life. Then we helped carefully sort and store wall fragments from a Roman villa in special acid-free boxes, making sure these artefacts are preserved for the future. It made me realise that being an archaeologist is about uncovering and protecting history in all sorts of fascinating ways," Odin continued.
Andy Ward, curator of the Kent Archaeological Society, said: “Opportunities like this are incredibly valuable and they highlight that archaeology isn’t just about digging, it’s about understanding, recording, and protecting our shared history. Giving young people the chance to handle real artefacts helps bring the past to life in a meaningful and memorable way.”
Sean Ellis, managing director of Fernham Homes, which co-ordinated the competition as part of its wider series of initiatives, adds: “As a local company trading for over 25 years, we take immense pride in celebrating the individual heritage and character of each community we work in. These archaeological discoveries have inspired both the design of our new Sutton Valence site and initiatives such as this that help tell more of the story of the area’s rich history.
“We’re thrilled with the response from the pupils of Sutton Valence School and to be helping young people discover new interests alongside the fascinating past beneath their feet. Especially so amid the school’s own momentous 450th anniversary.”
The original artefacts were uncovered during initial groundworks for a new community of 105 homes by Fernham Homes in the village of Sutton Valence, located on North Street. Early works uncovered a complex network of ditches, trackways and enclosures, along with a collection of well-preserved artefacts. One particularly significant burial collection, potentially classed as treasure, is currently being assessed by officials under the Treasure Act 1996.
Sutton Valence and its surrounding landscape has been recognised for its rich Iron Age archaeology and these recent findings reinforce its legacy as a significant hub during the Late Iron Age and Early Roman periods.