michael.

I continued my education after my A-Levels with University for three years studying Archaeology (2020-2023) at the University of York. During this time, I learnt valuable skills as a practical archaeologist as well as being able to understand the principles behind why we look at the past and save places of historical significance. While at York I became the treasurer of the Universities Archaeology Society (2021-2022). This role led me to show what heritage and archaeology is about with trips to Sandal Castle in Wakefield, Whitby Abbey and many more. Although it was solely for the University students this gave me the opportunity to see how other people acknowledge heritage (Trusts). The University of York taught me how to conserve historic interiors. In addition to this one area of expertise I have gained is the built landscape of the Georgian period aka The Grand Tour. Allowing me to be able to interpret a built landscape designed by the most influential landscapers of the time William Kent, Lancelot Brown and Humphry Repton. After my studies I undertook a Post-Graduate Diploma in Archaeology and Heritage from 2023-2025 at the University of Leicester. This gave me the tools and understanding in how to conduct Archaeological Building Investigation and Recording. Of which I have completed numerous ABIR reports from Levels 1-3. The first of which was a level 3 building recording of the Coach house at Sinai Park House.

Throughout my time at University, I was volunteering and working with Laura as a research assistant for projects at Sinai Park House as well as Burton Upon Trent’s historical past. This gave me the drive and passion that still invigorates me today about local and national heritage. Volunteering at Sinai Park House also introduced me to the challenges that independent and private owned historical places have, to gain funding and help from organisations. My goals are to make sure that as many people as possible gain the knowledge to understand Our heritage. While also making sure the story and history of heritage is fully explored and told in its entirety.

Since 2020 I have been working with Laura as a Research Assistant. This has allowed me to go down many a rabbit hole exploring the projects we have worked on, gaining more appreciation for the heritage and learning all about the families that once occupied a home. It has led to me honing my skills as a researcher and being able to interpret the historical significance of heritage assets and non-heritage assets. Working alongside Laura has taken my appreciation for the landscape both naturally and the built environment to new heights. Further to this I am an affiliate member of the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists.

Since 2025, I have been enrolled on an ABBE Level 3 Domestic Energy Assessor and Retrofit Assessor course. This course means that I am qualified to undertake EPCs on properties. An EPC is a certificate that outlines the energy efficiency of your property (A-G). An EPC also outlines ways in which the energy performance of your property can be improved. A Domestic Energy Assessor is someone who can conduct an EPC Survey. A Retrofit Assessor is someone who evaluates the current building’s energy performance, then advises on what improvements can be made to a building mostly focusing on reducing carbon emissions in order to meet the standards of PAS 2030 and PAS 2035.