Parks and Recreation: a creative and embodied response to researching the history of the promotion of responsible access to the countryside
Student placement project
- Project supervisors
Giorgia Tolfo (lead supervisor) and Mollie Clarke (co-supervisor)
- Department
Research, Grants and Academic Engagement
- Maximum number of student placements available on the project per academic year
One
- Level of study
Open to PhD and MA/MSc students
- Deadline for Expressions of Interest from students
30 November 2026 (17:00)
- Specific knowledge and/or skills required for the placement
At the time of application, students should indicate their preferred creative format and any technical requirements needed to pursue it.
Project description
This placement offers a student the opportunity to explore the history, evolution and significance of the Country Code. The student will research Countryside Commission records held at The National Archives and produce a creative visual output that responds to their research into the Code and their experience using archival records as source for creative practices. They will also contribute a reflective piece for a Research Skills edition of the Research newsletter.
Created in 1949, the Countryside Commission was responsible for improving public access to the countryside. As outdoor recreation grew in popularity, it promoted responsible countryside use through educational campaigns, including the introduction of the Country Code, first published as an illustrated leaflet by James Lucas in 1951.
The project will highlight the value of The National Archives' Countryside Commission records and demonstrate the potential of creative responses to archival material for research dissemination and public engagement. It will also provide the student with valuable experience in archival research and portfolio development. Applicants should indicate their preferred creative format and any technical requirements at the time of application.
Activities include
- Production of a creative/visual output that responds to their research.
- Contribute a reflective piece for a Research Skills edition of the Research newsletter.