As part of work by National Highways in Preparation for the start of the long-awaited A66 upgrade expected to start in 2026, archaeological excavations will get underway east of Penrith this week.
From Tuesday, 2nd September, teams working for National Highways will be carrying out detailed digs in the Cross Street and Fell Lane areas of Kirkby Thore, carefully excavating the past before construction reshapes the route’s future.
The work will take place in fields close to the village, where archaeologists will strip back the soil and make meticulous records of what they find to build up a record about the area’s history to preserve it for the future. National Highways has confirmed that the work will have no impact on traffic using the A66.
Once the archeological stage is complete, the focus will turn to utilities. Electricity, BT, water and gas services that will be diverted through the fields, clearing the way for construction of the upgraded A66, which is now expected to begin in 2026.
Alongside the preparations for the A66 upgrade, the project is also opening up opportunities for the next generation. Oxford Archaeology, who are carrying out the excavations, has announced that it is offering two apprenticeship placements for aspiring fieldwork archaeologists.
The apprenticeships will begin on Monday, 13th October 2025, with training split between the A66 site and Oxford Archaeology’s Lancaster office. The scheme provides a rare chance to gain hands-on experience of a major excavation project, working side by side with experienced professionals. Apprentices will help uncover and interpret archaeological features, process finds and environmental samples, and contribute to post-excavation analysis.
Apprenticeship Programme Details
Duration: 15 months (flexible between 12–18 months to suit learning pace)
Eligibility: Ages 18+; career changers welcomed
Requirements: GCSE Maths and English (Grade 4+ desirable); relevant qualifications and experience encouraged
Annual Wage: £24,453
Training Provider: Cirencester College (Level 3 Archaeological Technician Apprenticeship)
Location: Lancaster office with fieldwork along the A66 and other sites (transport and accommodation provided for away work)
Support Provided: PPE, tools, and subsistence allowance (£23.50 per night)
The programme gives apprentices the chance to work outdoors in a team environment, learn excavation, recording and interpretation techniques, and gain experience across a range of departments including Finds, Geomatics and Environmental. On completion, there will be opportunities to progress into full-time roles or pursue further training.
Applications should be made via the National Apprenticeship Service:
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