The event, part of the National Festival of Archaeology, welcomed local families and young learners to explore life in Roman Britain through hands-on activities, dressing up, and Roman-inspired crafting.
Students studying Archaeology and Anthropology at the University of Bristol designed and delivered a series of interactive experiences focused on different aspects of Roman life, including food and mosaics. Children took part in mosaic designing and even tried their hand at a mini excavation dig.
The event also drew renewed attention to Kings Weston Roman Villa following a car crash in 2024 that damaged the surrounding site. The incident prompted public interest in the villa’s heritage value and its significance as one of Britain’s most notable Roman sites.
As part of their contribution, the students collaborated with staff from Bristol Museums, which manages the site, to develop a school resource pack to help local teachers bring Roman history into the classroom.
The students’ work represents a joined-up response with the museum, demonstrating how universities can actively contribute to heritage protection, education, and community engagement.
Benjamin Parker, MArts Anthropology with Innovation student and Student Heritage Engagement Officer, said: “This project showed how powerful it can be to open up heritage sites and let students engage directly with the local community.
“By placing young people at the centre of the process, this became not only an empowering experience for us as students, but also a genuinely fun and accessible way for members of the community to connect with heritage they might not otherwise have had the chance to engage with.”
Alex Birkett, Specialist Teacher Training Technician in the Department of Anthropology and Archaeology said: "This has been a wonderful opportunity for our students to be truly challenged, putting the skills gained from their degrees to good use. Nothing beats the hard work and enthusiasm of students to inspire and entertain kids. This project has brought life to a part of Bristol that is often overlooked.
“Set in a neighbourhood where 13.8% of residents have no formal qualifications (compared to 7.5% citywide) and 36.6% rarely engage with cultural activity (versus 22.1% citywide), Kings Weston Roman Villa holds immense potential as a community resource.”
Long-term collaborations between the University of Bristol and Bristol Museums are now underway to enhance facilities and expand programming.