Archaeology is, put simply, the study of the human past through the recovery and analysis of material culture (artifacts and other physical remains).
CAT primarily functions as a commercial archaeological unit and as such the majority of our work is pre construct based.
Further information can be found here.
Archaeology has been, since the implementation of Planning Policy Guidance Note 16 (PPG16) in 1990, an integral part of the planning and development process in the UK.
Over time the original legislation has evolved into the current government policy and guidance for the historic environment as set out in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which places the emphasis on understanding and conserving the significance of heritage as part of sustainable development.
Our work as a commercial unit operates directly as part of this framework prior to construction.
The best way to contact us with business enquires is via our commercial email: services@catuk.org
Further information about the services we provide can be found here.
Our other contact details can be found here.
All our contact details can be found here.
CAT has a volunteer program, for more information click here.
There are two distinct branches of archaeology, commercial and research.
CAT primarily operates as a commercial archaeological unit whilst the excavations operated by universities and public groups are usually research based.
Joining local archaeological groups, such as the Colchester Archaeological Group, can be a good first step outside of academia.
Undertaking an archaeological degree can be a more academic step towards the the goal. eventually taking advantage of various graduate schemes. however a number of non graduate schemes do exist with some archaeological companies through initial volunteering or via new apprenticeship schemes.
Overall, getting involved where you can in your free time with local or national groups is a good step to take.
For further reading on a career in archaeology take a look at the British Archaeological Jobs & resources website.
CAT’s office hours are Monday to Friday 08:00 to 17:00.
The Roman Circus Visitor Centre is open Tuesday to Friday 11am-3pm October – March. Tuesday to Saturday 10am-4pm April-September.
Guided tours at 12 noon & 2pm.
A Roman Circus is, primarily, a chariot race track. Literary evidence suggests that they would also be the site of various other forms of entertainment.
The Roman Circus at Colchester is the only known example of this monumental structure in the British Isles, though many are known from other areas of the former Roman Empire.
Learn more here.
The best way to have finds identified is through the Portable Antiquities Scheme.
They can be contacted here.
There are various local groups in and around Essex, linked below:
Friends of the Colchester Archaeological Trust.
Colchester Archaeological Group.
Essex Society for Archaeology & History.
The Council for British Archaeology – East.
CAT do provide community talks, for further information click here.
