June is for winning and scanning

Last week I conducted a 3D laser scan of the Hell-Fire Caves at West Wycombe. We took millions upon millions of data points and the full extent is so epic it deserves proper reflection and a proper write up - so expect that soon. And again, a super huge thanks to the British Geological Survey for making my laser scanning dreams come true! They are absolute legends and a pleasure to work with. And to the cave owners and staff - a massive thanks for allowing me unfettered access and for being so welcoming.Here's a teaser behind the scenes shot:

Lee from the BGS using the Faro 3D laser scanner at the Hell-Fire Caves

June was also a good month for awards - my supervisor and I were just awarded a University Teaching Development Grant for my projects involving social media embedded within the annual Berkeley Castle Project. This follows an award from the University's Green Apple Scheme for a community engagement and ethics project (also embedded within the BCP) - I'm in the process of drafting the evaluation for this and the second part of the award will see me set up a temporary exhibition around the town of Berkeley.

Plus, (yes, even more!), I was shortlisted for a University Award for Enhancing the Student Learning Experience - and received a commendation. Quote from Professor Judith Squires, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education):

"...you clearly have excelled in your role and the contribution you have made in promoting the University theme of Education for Sustainable Development, in both transformative and innovative capacity, is very much appreciated. On behalf of the University I would like to formally commend and convey our gratitude to you."

I've also joined the REACT team and will be testing a multimedia object box in a school next week. Read more about the project here: http://www.react-hub.org.uk/objects-sandbox/projects/2014/reflector/

Mid May to mid June update

It's been a heady mix of archaeology on site at Berkeley Castle and work on my sustainability life!

First though, my utter edge of seat excitement that I'll be away later this week at the Hell-Fire Caves with the British Geological Survey - they have kindly offered a team of experts to work with me to 3D laser scan the entire cave system. More updates on that soon.

Onto Berkeley, where I've been training students in how to engage the public with the University's dig around the town. We've had some cracking ideas come up - you might want to try one of our quizzes:

What archaeological site are you?

What kind of archaeologist are you?

Along with videos (my favourite), Facebook, Twitter, etc.

Back on campus, I signed up to the be an academic assignment tutor as part of the Access to Bristol scheme. And it was full steam ahead for developments with sustainability and enterprise education plans.

I even made room for some semblance of a social life and saw the Fun Lovin' Criminals at Grillstock.