In April 1974 a new project was launched. It represented something unique, not only in the history of the Institute of Archaeology, but also in archaeological work in Britain. Rescue archaeology was being reorganised on a regional basis, and out of a collaboration between the Department of the Environment and the Institute, the Sussex Archaeological Field Unit was born. With a remit for excavation and training the SAFU was the first full-time professional unit working in Sussex. 50 years later, the UCL  Archaeology South-East (ASE) have been celebrating a golden anniversary for teh past months

Now in April 2025 join them for a journey through time and be part of the 50th anniversary finale! This landmark event is open to anyone interested in the archaeology of the south-east and how ASE and its predecessors have played a key role in pushing forward understanding of our past in this region.

Since starting life in 1974 as the Sussex Archaeological Field Unit, ASE is a story of evolution and growth. Still proudly part of the UCL Institute of Archaeology and committed to high standards in archaeological research and training.

The day conference will showcase work and projects, past and present, with insights into current research from both ASE staff and special guest external speakers.  The programme will include:

• Keynote talks from leading archaeologists
• Networking opportunities for professional and local community archaeologists  
• Displays showcasing recent finds and innovative techniques
• Archaeology South-East bookstall with special conference offers
• Closing wine reception  

Programme

View full talk abstracts in our Conference Programme.

• Louise Rayner, Director, ASE: Archaeology South-East: a short history of 50 years
• David Rudling, Academic Director, Sussex School of Archaeology: The Field Archaeology Unit: the first 30 years (1974-2004)
• Matt Pope, Associate Professor, UCL Institute of Archaeology/ASE: A half century of shaping the early prehistory of the South-East
• Paul Garwood, Associate Professor, University of Birmingham: The Neolithic transformed: 50 years of Neolithic archaeology in South-East England
• Hayley Nicholls, Project Officer, ASE: A burgeoning Bronze Age landscape: navigating the upland versus lowland bias of Sussex archaeology
• Angus Forshaw and Rob Cullum, Project Officers, ASE: The Only Way is Essex: exploring evolving landscapes and shifting settlements in East Anglia
• Melanie Giles, Professor, University of Manchester: The ‘dragonfly’ charioteer: a middle Iron Age weapons burial from the edge of the Yorkshire Wolds
• Michael Shapland, Senior Historic Buildings Specialist, ASE: The Lives and Deaths of Historic Buildings
• Elke Raemen and Sarah Wolferstan, Senior Specialists, ASE: Skittles and Alms: the material culture of two inns in 17th- and 18th-century Whitechapel, and its use to support engagement with local communities
• Martin Bell, Professor, University of Reading: Reflections on contributions, challenges and potential for the future

Date: Saturday 5th April 2025 9am – 5pm
Location: CityCoast Centre, Portslade, near Brighton, East Sussex

Book your ticket now and be part of history!

More about the ASE 50th Anniversary

Read about ASE’s half century, written by ASE’s director Louise Rayner, published recently in Archaeology International.

Read about ASE’s 50th Anniversary here: Archaeology South-East celebrates 50th anniversary!

Find out more about ASE’s history (and many name changes!) here: What’s in a name? From Sussex Archaeological Field Unit to Archaeology South-East