Honorary Secretary/Trustee

Cornwall Archaeological Society is a registered charity. It was founded in 1961 with the aim of undertaking archaeological research in Cornwall (and the Isles of Scilly) and disseminating knowledge of Cornish archaeology by publication and other means. The Society has over 500 members. We offer programmes of walks and talks, as well as a newsletter and an internationally respected journal, Cornish Archaeology. In addition, the Society holds Archaeology in Cornwall conferences and Joint Symposia with Devon Archaeological Society every 2 years. The Society has undertaken and supported numerous excavations and other investigations. We are involved in drawing up a programme of archaeological investigation involving members and other organisations. The Society is a member of Bord Ertach Kernow and a partner in the Cornwall National Landscapes Monumental Improvement project. We have a website (https://cornisharchaeology.org.uk/) and Facebook page.

The Secretary is a Trustee elected at the Annual General Meeting. This role will become vacant at the 2025 AGM when the current secretary will stand down. No archaeological qualifications are required but the role offers opportunities for someone with an interest in the subject to mix with archaeologists and learn about Cornwall’s rich archaeological heritage. The role would appeal to someone who is used to taking minutes and who has basic administrative skills. We have no premises, so the role involves working from home. A personal computer and a good internet connection are essential. Committee meetings are held 6 times a year, usually via Zoom. The A.G.M. is a hybrid meeting, most recently held at Kresen Kernow in Redruth.

To ensure a smooth transition, it would be ideal if a potential successor could work alongside the current secretary to learn what is involved before taking over. They would then be ready for election by members at the next AGM. It might also lead to changes in the role to suit the new person.  There is no fixed definition of the role but broadly speaking it entails:

1. Organising the agenda for committee meetings, including the AGM, and writing the minutes.

2. Dealing with correspondence, nearly all of which is by email. With the current reorganisation of the committee of trustees much of the correspondence can be forwarded to the coordinators of each working group. There will also be a trustee who can deal with enquiries relating to archaeology.

3. Working closely with the President and keeping trustees informed.

4. Keeping a brief log of society activities.

5. Being the initial point of contact for the society.

While it is a busy role, the holder will enjoy being at the heart of Cornish archaeology. Anyone interested should contact secretary@cornisharchaeology.org.uk for more details.