A Bradford University student has landed a dream archaeology placement in South Africa.

Rachel Holgate is to further her dream career in the archaeology field by joining a research team in South Africa.

The Essex-born student graduated from Bradford University with a BSc in Bioarchaeology in 2012 and is completing her MSc in Human Osteology and Palaeopathology in September.

Rachel said: “The quality of teaching at Bradford is outstanding due to the ground-breaking research that lecturers carry out, while the learning materials available to students are equally excellent.”

However it was the experience gained through work placements by the University that have most influenced Rachel’s career, resulting in her new position at the University of Pretoria.

Bradford University said that the work placement programme was a key part of the University’s career-oriented approach to higher education. Miss Holgate said: “The skills I was able to develop whilst on placement give me an edge in the competitive jobs market. It is a demonstration to employers that I have a passion for my subject and the competency to perform highly in the field.”

Rachel’s year in industry was divided between two placements; the first three months taking place at Plymouth Museum and Art Gallery and nine months at Bradford University’s Biological Anthropology Research Centre (BARC).

Dr Jo Buckberry, lecturer in Biological Anthropology at Bradford University, said: “The placement year was hugely beneficial to Rachel – she developed her organisation skills as well as her passion for the analysis of human remains. When Rachel said she was moving to South Africa and looking for work experience after her Masters, I immediately contacted Dr Ericka L’Abbé, a professional contact at the University of Pretoria.”