MOLA introduces the UK’s first CIfA-approved Trainee Supervisor programme

Last year, MOLA introduced two new workplace training programmes, one for people with no archaeological qualification or experience, and one for graduates looking to put theory into practice in a structured format. Over 2021 we took on 21 Trainees and 24 Graduates, who spent six months working on our sites and attending classroom sessions before their end-point assessment. We are thrilled to have a pass rate of 97%, and even more thrilled that 71% are still working with us on permanent contracts, with several others going onto exciting new careers in academia. We plan to share more information about the successes of the programme soon.

Spurred on by the positive impact of these Early Career Archaeologist programmes, we are also delighted to announce a new Trainee Supervisor scheme. This has been approved by the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) – the only one in the UK to have this important stamp of recognition - as it develops the skills, knowledge and experience people need to achieve Associate level accreditation.

This is a paid opportunity which provides structured learning and guidance to experienced archaeologists who want to become site supervisors. The programme is split into nine modules, covering health, safety and environmental responsibilities, archaeological supervision and strategy, managing people and teams, and post-excavation processes. These are delivered by our expert Trainers who will mentor participants throughout the programme. The first eight weeks are spent shadowing a supervisor to further develop knowledge and understanding, followed by six weeks spent supervising a site independently. The end-point assessment tests overall proficiency in the role, and MOLA intends to offer everyone who successfully passes this a permanent supervisor post in our team.

We see this as an important step in improving career progression in archaeology, and it will also help us create more MOLA supervisors to deliver the exciting project work we have planned for 2022/23.

More information about the programme can be found on our Jobs Portal, and please direct any queries to training@mola.org.uk.