Headland Archaeology has been a CIfA Registered Organisation for 25 years, throughout which time our RO status has delivered significant benefits to our business, our staff and our clients. CIfA provides the independent assurance that our systems, processes and professional standards have been rigorously assessed and meet the requirements expected of the profession. Our clients have the confidence that Headland Archaeology projects will be delivered to recognised standards of quality, ethics and competence; qualities that were key in our success as part of Access+ in being awarded the post-excavation contract for HS2.
For our staff, our CIfA RO status extends far beyond organisational accreditation. We actively support employees in achieving and maintaining individual accreditation and developing professionally. We are delighted that so many of our staff share our commitment to CIfA, and we encourage active participation in CIfA Special Interest Groups. Our team are currently active in the Archives, Community Archaeology, Project Management and many other Special Interest Groups as well as serving on the Board and other CIfA committees. Being part of the wider CIfA sphere has provided valuable opportunities for professional development, knowledge sharing and networking, helping our teams continually improve their skills and understanding of emerging issues within the sector.
CIfA has also played an important role in helping us develop our career pathways and role profiles. Our role profiles are based on the Institute’s competence matrix and professional standards, which provide a valuable framework for defining responsibilities, expectations and progression routes across the business. CIfA’s guidance has enabled us to create clear development opportunities for staff and ensure that our organisational structure aligns with recognised professional competencies.
The values of the Institute mirror those of Headland Archaeology, and our membership is key to maintaining our commitment to professional excellence and integrity, and investing in the future of our workforce and the stewardship of our heritage.