STUDENT researchers have been helping to rediscover Winchester’s Jewish past through the university’s Winchester Research Apprenticeship Programme (WRAP).

The scheme gives undergraduate students the chance to work with academics to develop research skills.

For this project students will work with the university’s history, archaeology and theology and religious studies departments, the Jewish community, the local tourist office and Winchester City Council to rediscover the missing heritage.

In the 13th century, Winchester had a thriving Jewish community. However, in 1290 they were expelled from England and mentions of it appear to have been wiped from the history books.

“The Medieval Jewish Winchester project is a fantastic opportunity for students to work with academics and the local Jewish community on a piece of research that will have a lasting impact for the city,” said Dr Christina Welch, senior lecturer in Theology and Religious Studies and mentor to the students.

“The project explores a largely missing aspect of the city’s past and allows tourists and locals to learn about its medieval Jewish history.”

Dr Phil Marter, lecturer in Applied Archaeological Techniques, and Dr Alex Langlands, postdoctoral researcher and community engagement officer within the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at the university, will help piece together Winchester’s medieval topography.