Archaeology underfoot
About the program
What is the role of the archaeologist? What evidence do they work with? How can they use documentary records to help interpret physical evidence? What perspective does archaeology give you that historical records might not?
During this hands-on archaeology program, students use artefacts – including the building – to investigate the layered history of the Hyde Park Barracks and the people who lived there during the 19th century.
Throughout this program students will:
- Excavate, analyse, record and interpret a range of authentic artefacts
- Use physical and documentary evidence to answer an inquiry question
- Think critically about archaeology and what it can tell them about human experience
Students will undertake a historical inquiry into the lives of female immigrants, applying the processes and methods of both the historian and the archaeologist to draw their own conclusions about both physical and documentary evidence.
The program also includes a simulated archaeological dig in our purpose built trenches. During this activity students work in small groups to excavate, categorise, weigh, measure, sketch and then interpret an artefact.

Key information
Location
Hyde Park Barracks
Queens Square, Macquarie Street Sydney NSW 2000
Bookings +61 2 8239 2211
Cost (GST free)
From $282 for up to 20 students
Duration
90 minutes
Session offered
Monday to Friday
Maximum students
60 per session
Supervision ratios
The supervision ratio is 1:10 for primary groups and 1:15 for secondary groups. Teachers and parents attend free of charge at these ratios. One carer per student with special needs will be admitted free of charge
Additional visitor costs
Each additional visitor will be charged at the concession rate of $12