Sandford Award
A framework for success in developing your learning programmes
The Sandford Award is the leading quality mark for heritage sites and services, and remains the only scheme in the UK offering independent quality assurance through on‑site assessment. The Award also recognises the importance of informal learning, including family programmes and self‑guided experiences.
Since the first Awards were made in 1978, hundreds of heritage sites have achieved Sandford Award status. Recipients include museums and galleries, castles, churches, historic houses, cottages, palaces, archaeological sites, archives, zoos, and many other types of heritage attractions.
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 heritage learning provision.
Benefits for entrants
Expert Insight: Professional, specialist consultancy focused on heritage learning in practice.
A Valuable Opportunity for Reflection: Completing the application form provides a valuable reflective process.
Stronger Advocacy: A detailed report and site specific recommendations you can use to influence your governing body, secure support, and strengthen funding bids.
National Recognition: Celebrate your team’s achievements and gain national acknowledgement for delivering high‑quality learning experiences.
Independent Quality Mark: An external endorsement you can confidently use in your marketing and communications.
Practical Improvement Tools: Onsite assessment and clear, actionable guidance and site specific recommendations to help you develop and enhance your learning services — whether or not you achieve an 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: La Hougue Bie Museum Sandford Award holder