Howdenburn Former Primary School, Jedburgh Scottish Borders Archaeological Watching Brief

The archaeological works consisted of a monitored topsoil strip of an area measuring approximately 3,200m2. Machine excavation was conducted in shallow units/spits where possible and ceased on the exposure of subsoil, or formation level, whichever was reached first. This was achieved using a flat-bladed ditching bucket. The Watching Brief was undertaken according to AOC Archaeology Group's standard operating procedures as detailed with the Written Scheme of Investigation (AOC 2024). The monitored strip was conducted on the 23rd June 2025 in clear conditions. Archaeological visibility remained good throughout. The works required the removal of topsoil across an area measuring approximately 3200m2. This included the level area along the northern site boundary and the downslope area to the west. The topsoil (01) appeared imported and varied in depth between 0.40m and 0.60m. The topsoil was comprised of a well sorted mid-brown clay garden loam. This immediately overlaid a natural of red brown glacial clay with numerous small, subrounded stones (02). Modern detritus in the form of brick, wire etc were found pressed into the subsoil. Various former services were present cut into the subsoil. Given the location of the watching brief area in between the former school and modern housing it is likely that the area has been heavily truncated in recent years with some possible landscaping and levelling. No significant archaeological features or finds were observed during the works.