Developers in Holland are responsible for funding any digs that need to be done as a result of their work, although in very special cases (eg Roman villas etc) the government fronts up the cash. In my opinion the mostly commercial nature of archaeology is leading to a fall in

standards in this country. Developers are pushing for faster and cheaper digs and opting for watching briefs rather than excavations. This is held in check by the relevant authorities ‘het Ryksdienst voor het Oudheidkundig Bodemonderzoek’ (ROB), and the Kwaliteitsnorm Nederlandse Archeologie (KNA) has been recently set up to monitor standards. But it isn’t enough for my liking.

Pay and conditions are much better than in the UK. Although archaeologists’ pay is still crap compared to other professions, I do get holiday and sick pay and all my travel expenses. It varies from company to company but if I have to travel more that 1½ hours to site I’m entitled to a hotel and about £15 a day expenses. And of course the cost of living is much lower over here, particularly beer and tobacco!

Digging strategies in Holland are a bit different from the UK: I can’t remember the last time I used a trowel! And if you want to get anywhere you need to try to learn the language. Everyone speaks English, but companies are reluctant to hire non-Dutch speakers. I would say if you’re keen enough go for it! Digging abroad has given me the chance to be employed in archaeology for the last 6 years solid, and now I’ve got a permanent contract. I can’t see me having managed that in the UK.