Students wanting to gain experience with archeology can now register for the Esk’etemc Archaeological Field School taking place in summer 2025.
A six-week, land-based learning program, students will obtain 12 university credits through hands-on experience in surveying, mapping, excavation and lab work at a site within Esk’etemculucw. Beth Bedard will be leading the courses in Esk'et, which will include excavating an old c7istktn (pithouse) as part of the on the land field school portion.
"The number of specific claims under Esk'etemc that are being pursued and other archaeological opportunities in this region, highlight the need to have our own Archaeological department," wrote Calvin Dubray, Education Director at Esk'etemc.
Courses include the three-credit ARCH 2010 – Introduction to Archeology, the six-credit ARCH 3060 – Summer Field Training in Archeology and the three credit ARCH 4110 – Prehistory of a Special Area in the New World.
Grounded in respect for Indigenous knowledge and the environment, the program is designed to foster a deeper connection to the land.
It is sponsored by Esk’etemc in partnership with Thompson Rivers University (TRU) through funds from the First Nation Education Steering Committee and the First Nation School Association.
"The Post Secondary Partnership Program is available to First Nation communities to bring relevant and culturally authentic post secondary courses, programs and training to build capacity," Dubray wrote. "This is a great example of how when you work together on educational opportunities and outcomes for students, great things can happen."
Enrolment is limited. Those interested are encouraged to apply or ask questions by contacting Beth Bedard at bbedard@tru.ca, TRU Williams Lake Admissions at wladmissions@tru.ca or by calling 250-392-8000.
