A Forestry Commission Scotland learning resource which helps pupils discover the mysterious Picts has been shortlisted for a prestigious UK archaeological award.

The British Archaeology Awards showcase the very latest discoveries and innovations in archaeology, with The Picts being shortlisted for the Best Public Presentation of Archaeology Award.

The Picts is a colourful classroom and outdoor learning resource for teachers which aims to stimulate pupils’ imaginations through classroom discovery and outdoor visits to museums and hillforts.

Matt Ritchie, Forestry Commission Scotland’s archaeologist said: “We are thrilled that our project has been shortlisted for a UK Award. We hoped to make it easier for teachers to study the Picts within the classroom – and to integrate this learning with a visit to local museums, hillforts and symbol stones. “

“Some of the most important Pictish hillforts in the Highlands lie on Scotland’s National Forest Estate. Enabling outdoor learning about both the natural and cultural environment is a key part of our role.”

Deborah Williams, Chair of the British Archaeological Awards commented,

“Increasingly archaeologists are responding to public interest by developing new ways to help people to take part in research and excavations, start up their own projects, and share and understand new discoveries – and this shines through in our shortlisted entries.

The Picts is a learning resource which aims to bring the early historic Picts alive through a series of classroom and place-based activities, particularly hillforts on the National Forest Estate. It encourages teachers and pupils to explore local museums, archaeological sites and historic monuments.

The results of the British Archaeological Awards will be announced on 11 July at the British Museum in London.

See the shortlisted projects at www.archaeologicalawards.com and follow the Awards on twitter @BAAWARDSUK

The Picts: a learning resource (PDF 7.1MB)The learning resource provides an introduction to a topic rich in imagination, creativity and enquiry. Through discovery, exploration and sharing, teachers can engage young people by inspiring curiosity and inviting them to investigate this hidden part of their history and the evidence it has left in our culture and environment. The learning resource provides an introduction to a topic rich in imagination, creativity and enquiry. Through discovery, exploration and sharing, teachers can engage young people by inspiring curiosity and inviting them to investigate this hidden part of their history and the evidence it has left in our culture and environment.