Sandford Award
A framework for success in developing your learning programmes
Sandford Award is the quality mark for heritage learning and validation for heritage organisations large and local, urban and rural across the UK (including the Republic of Ireland, Channel Islands and Isle of Man) that offer a formal learning programme which supports the relevant curriculum across the home countries. Recognition is also given to informal learning such as family programmes and self-guided provision.
Hundreds of heritage sites have received the Sandford Award since they were first made in 1978. They include museums and galleries, castles, churches, and historic houses, cottages, palaces, archaeological sites, archives and zoos.
Why apply for a Sandford Award?
The six criteria underpinning the Sandford Award assessment provide a framework for success whether you are looking to gain the recognition your learning programmes deserve or seeking to develop the quality of your learning provision.
Benefits for entrants
Consultancy: an expert and professional consultancy that looks at heritage learning in action. Completing the application form is a really useful reflection tool.
Advocacy: a detailed report and site-specific recommendations which you can use to advocate with your governing body and funders.
Recognition: national recognition of you and your team and your contribution to high quality learning at your site if your application is successful.
Endorsement: an independent endorsement and quality mark that you can use in your marketing.
Improvement: the onsite assessment and report give you the tools you need to develop your services- even if you are not successful in achieving a Sandford Award.
“We have a long-standing education offer, so having external assessors come in and look over what we do was really useful as they confirmed our belief that we have a strong offer. Getting the award has allowed us to really shout about what we do in the Education Team to our colleagues and volunteer team, raising the profile of education at our organisation.
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Banner image: Roman Baths, Sandford Award holder