(Image: A corporal making flower decorations out of recycled materials. Copyright: © IWM. Original Source: http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/205506742)
Are you a student at the University of Edinburgh?
Or a local person living around Dalkeith?
Does your local community group want to try something new?
If so, Archaeology Scotland invites you to be a part of our Big Dig, a free Archaeology training field school and local community dig running from the 6th-14th August at Newbattle Abbey College, Dalkeith, everyday from 10am – 4pm.
You may be a student looking to gain Archaeology, STEM and Engagement skills, or a local person interested in finding out more about your area, getting outside and trying something new. You don’t have to be studying Archaeology, or even know anything about it to be part of Big Dig. Archaeology Scotland are providing a range of Archaeology training and activities for all ages and backgrounds, with no experience necessary!
Together, we will uncover evidence from Newbattle Abbey College’s incredible past and stories, from Medieval monks to people serving in the Second World War, connecting us to people, place and the past.
Our dig will focus on a site of possible practice trenches, dug during WWII. Join us as we hope to uncover fascinating insights into the war-time activities at the college. However, you never know exactly what you will find – we may find anything from the site’s prehistoric past over 4000 years ago, right up to modern day!
To take part as a student, local person or community group, please contact us by email as soon as possible because spaces are limited.
Everyone is welcome to come along to see what we’re up to, ask questions and learn more about the facts, finds and stories we uncover. Our Family Fun Day on Saturday 10th August is open to all from 10am-4pm, with activities and crafts for all ages, Archaeology tours and more. You can also stay up-to date with the Big Dig by following along on our Instagram and X(Twitter) where we will be sharing live updates!
Read on to learn about Newbattle Abbey College’s Wartime past. What do you think we will find?
Newbattle Abbey as a Military Training Base (1939-1945)
During World War II, Newbattle Abbey College served as a crucial training ground. The Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS – Women’s Army) and the Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC) operated out of the college, training new recruits. These recruits spent three to six weeks at Newbattle before being deployed to various wartime roles.
The college grounds were transformed with the construction of numerous huts to accommodate up to two thousand trainees. Some of these huts still exist today, forming part of the Newbattle Business Park.
The Army Foundation College Era (1945-1948)
Following the war, the Trustees of Newbattle Abbey College launched an ambitious Army Education Scheme. This initiative aimed to help demobilised service members transition to civilian life by providing them with valuable skills and education. Courses were offered in subjects such as Science and Mathematics, Commerce, Arts, Modern Studies, Artistic Crafts, Trades, and Domestic Science.
Helen Nimmo, Commandant at the ATS Training Camp at her desk. Copyright: © IWM. Original Source: http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/205483881
A lesson in the process of darning sock! Copyright: © IWM. Original Source: http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/205506821
How to get involved
The Big Dig runs from August 6th to 14th, from 10 AM to 4 PM each day. Booking is required, so please reserve your spot by emailing j.miller@archaeologyscotland.org.uk
This event is generously supported by Edinburgh University Local, AOC Archaeology Group, Historic Environment Scotland, East Lothian Works and the Scottish Power Foundation.
Archaeology Scotland is thrilled to assist in uncovering the hidden stories from this pivotal period and the lives of those who called the college home. Stay updated with live updates from the dig on our Instagram and X (Twitter) accounts!
For more fascinating stories about the College during these years, be sure to check out this wonderful video by Newbattle Abbey College: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=r9oB-7Uzmic