The excavation of twelve test-pits to determine the presence of archaeological remain prior to the erection of a free-standing canopy was due to be monitored by a CAT archaeologist. Postholes were excavated in these locations without archaeological supervision, however, and so, as a remedial measure, CAT archaeologists searched the spoil from the groundworks to recover any artefacts. Each of the postholes was approximately 0.3m by 0.3m and, according to the contractors who carried out the work groundworks, were excavated to a depth of 0.4-0.6m. Archaeological monitoring of the excavation of a series of postholes to accommodate an outdoor awning was due to be carried out at St Helena School, Colchester. The remains of a Roman temple complex are located within the site, which is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. The projected works were undertaken without archaeological supervision, and so, as a remedial measure, archaeologists sifted through the spoil to search for artefacts. Two sherds of Roman pottery, some Roman and post-Roman brick and tile, a flint flake and animal bone were recovered. The excavations did not appear to have penetrated beyond modern horizons.