Sandford Awards recognise 43 educational heritage sites

The awards will be presented by BGU's Chancellor, Dr Tracy Borman

43 heritage sites have been recognised for their outstanding educational provision at this year's Sandford Awards.

The presentation ceremony took place on Monday 6^th November at Hampton Court Palace, one of this year’s recipients. Among the winners were the Museum of Lincolnshire Life, Ulster Folk Museum, Newcastle University Library, International Bomber Command Centre, and National Civil War Centre in Newark. A full list of awardees can be found here.

The awards were presented by Dr Tracy Borman, Chancellor of Bishop Grosseteste University and Chief Executive of the Heritage Education Trust.

Dr Tracy Borman said: "It is a huge pleasure and privilege to be presenting this year's Sandford Awards. Yet again, the winners represent a diverse range of historic sites across the British Isles and some really innovative learning programmes.

"It is an extra treat to be staging our first in-person ceremony since the pandemic and in such magnificent surroundings as Hampton Court Palace."

The Sandford Awards focus on formal, curriculum-aligned, heritage learning programmes that take place in the historic setting or natural environment and use the history and collections or natural resources to engage, inform and inspire visitors. Recognition is also given to informal learning such as family programmes and self-guided provision. Over 500 heritage sites and services across the British Isles have received the Sandford Award since the first awards were made in 1978.

Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) manages the Sandford Award in partnership with Heritage Education Trust. BGU Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Scott Fleming said: "We at BGU are delighted to continue our support for the Sandford Award and heritage education across Britain. Once again, the recipients of the awards are outstanding sector-leaders and we offer huge congratulations to them all.”

Entries for the 2024 Sandford Awards open on Monday 4 December. To register your interest in applying, please contact at sandford@bishopg.ac.uk