Sandford Award assessment process

To receive a Sandford Award, heritage organisations must show they deliver high-quality learning experiences. These are assessed against the Award’s criteria and quality standards.

Before applying, please check that your site or collection meets the eligibility requirements. Once applications close, a volunteer assessor will be assigned to your site. They’ll contact you by email with a letter introducing themselves and suggesting a date for their visit. The letter will explain what the visit involves and ask for some details in advance, such as the day’s schedule, information about the visiting group(s), and the focus of their session. On the day, the assessor will also need to see evidence related to statutory requirements (Criterion 6).

Assessment visits usually take place between March and mid-July, though visits outside this period may be possible. Most sites are assessed by one volunteer assessor, who may be joined by a trainee.

After the visit, the assessor writes a report and submits it for review and moderation. Their recommendation is then passed to the Board of Trustees of the Heritage Education Trust, who make the final decision at a meeting in early September. Applicants are informed of the outcome shortly after and receive a copy of the report.

Award winners are invited to attend the annual presentation ceremony, which is usually hosted by a Sandford Award holder.

Banner image: English Heritage Education, Sandford Award holder