130 Ancient History students and teachers from 12 schools were treated to some, as yet unpublished, material regarding the latest plaster cast studies and scans of the victims of the Mt Vesuvius eruption in 79AD.

The guest lecture was an initiative of the North West History Teachers Association, and McCarthy teacher Susan Barrett hopes it will pay dividends.

“Excerpts from Dr Lazer’s books are used in the HSC exam, and these students are getting the first take on all new research – most of which has not been published,” she said.

Previously Ms Lazer has acted as a tour guide for two McCarthy excursions to the ancient Italian city.

For Ms Lazer traveling to schools in regional centres is about leveling the playing field.

“Pompeii forms the core of the HSC course and Sydney kids get an unfair advantage – that is just true,” she said.

“Every student should have access to the same information, and now these kids are super up to date.

“It is also just really nice to come to a regional area.” 

Unfortunately the archaeologist could not stay long as she plans on heading back to Italy for a eighth “field season” at the Pompeii site.

“As a child I discovered Pompeii in a book and was just amazed,” she said.

“Now I am lucky enough to be able to work there.”