Second year Level 3 students took part in a mock excavation at the Lackham campus that was set up as a working crime scene and featured investigative equipment loaned by the Wiltshire Museum in Devizes.
The students had just six weeks to learn the skills needed to complete the practical task, which formed part of their forensic archaeology and anthropology module.
They had just one day to carry out the identification of clandestine graves, excavate and gather all the evidence for further investigation in the College’s laboratories.
Paul Turner, Deputy Head of Department for Health & Life Sciences, said: “I am extremely proud of the students from Lackham and Trowbridge who excelled in this task.
“This was a wonderful introduction to a forensic investigation in a real-world scenario.
“It was the most physically demanding part of the course and teamwork was paramount. They really didn’t disappoint!
“The subject is usually carried out at degree and master’s degree level, so the fact that BTEC Level 3 students produced such high quality work is a real credit to them.”
Kallum Lewis, aged 19, who lives in Trowbridge, said: “This was a unique and fun experience, I’d happily do it again. I enjoyed it so much that I’m now looking at university places to study forensic archaeology and anthropology.”
Ebony Rendell, 18, said the dig had confirmed a career in forensics was for her.
She said: “I had an amazing time doing the excavation and found it helpful to experience what it would be like in real life. I am looking into a career in forensics and archaeology and this has made me want to do it even more!”
Wiltshire College & University Centre offers Level 3 Forensic Investigation at its Trowbridge, Salisbury and Lackham campuses. For those wanting to progress, the College offers a Foundation Degree at its Salisbury campus.
For more information about our Forensic courses, hear from our lecturers at one of our Virtual Open Events. You can even apply!
