SCOLA was launched in 1992 by individuals and organisations concerned with the way in which London's archaeology is conducted.
SCOLA is sponsored by — The Society of Antiquaries of London — Council for British Archaeology — Surrey Archaeological Society — London & Middlesex Archaeological Society. — Kent Archaeological Society — The Essex Society for Archaeology and History.
SCOLA is supported by — Rescue, the Trust for British Archaeology — English Heritage — The Historic Royal Palaces Agency — Museums, Libraries and Archives Council
SCOLA aims to advance the study and practice of archaeology in London, to stimulate interest and act as a focus for opinion.
SCOLA provides a forum for all concerned with the long-term interests and the short-term problems of London archaeology.
SCOLA Constitution was revised in 2003
In 2007 SCOLA in conjuction with London Archaeologist created the LONDON ARCHAEOLOGICAL PRIZE.
Nominations for the 2008 prize are invited.
Research and excavation over the last half century have shown that the London region is exceptionally rich in archaeological remains of all periods -from Stone Age working areas to Second World War defences - spanning some 400,000 years of human history.
The vast majority of these remains are buried but much evidence for our past is now in the form of artifacts and excavation records. These must be properly published and cared for so that they are accessible for display, education and research. SCOLA has actively supported the creation by the Museum of London of the London Archaeological Archive and Research Centre at Eagle Wharf Road.
At present, too much is unpublished, including, unhappily, some important sites excavated many years ago. SCOLA is committed to encouraging in every possible way the publication of archaeological discoveries for both the expert and the interested public.
Archaeological work in the capital is continuing - over twenty separate archaeological teams have carried out projects in Greater London since 1992. It is vital that high standards are followed by both professional and independent archaeologists and that competition between teams does not lead to lowered standards or difficulties of access to information. SCOLA is working to rejuvenate the network of local liaison groups in which Borough Councillors, planning officers, and amateur and professional archaeologists keep in touch with each other.
SCOLA's publication in 1995 of a survey of the effects on the archaeology of London of the Government's Planning and Policy Guidance Note No.16 (PPG 16) highlighted a number of problems, many of which have since been addressed. SCOLA organised a seminar in 2002 on archaeology and PPG16 for local authority planning officers and others. For a summary click here.
SCOLA is working to ensure that the Mayor of London and the Greater London Assembly recognise the importance of the historic heritage, and especially archaeology, in the whole of their work, and particularly in the Plan for London and in the Cultural Strategy. For details of responses click here.
The Society of Antiquaries of London and the Council for British Archaeology provide the Chairman of SCOLA in alternate years. The acting Chairman is Mrs Shiela Broomfield Dip.Arch, FSA
SCOLA is a non-profit organisation registered as a Charity (No 1014797) and established for the benefit and education of the public.
SCOLA needs funds to enable it to carry out its work, and welcomes donations and members.
MEMBERSHIP is open to any organisation or individual concerned about the archaeology of Greater London. Members include professional and amateur archaeologists, archaeological societies, London Boroughs and individuals interested in the archaeology of Greater London. Members are kept in touch through an annual meeting and a summer newsletter. The subscription for individual members is £5, and varies for societies according to their size. For a membership application form click here.
Members receive a Newsletter and Annual Report
or the Assistant Secretary
P E Pickering
3 Westbury Road
London N12 7NY
(020) 8445 2807
email the secretary