How to enter

Applications for the 2026 Sandford Awards Are Now Open!

Download the following resources to help you prepare your application:

  • Eligibility Requirements

  • Guidance for Applicants

  • Application Form

    The closing date for applications is 23:59 on Friday 13 February 2026

Sandford Award Eligibility Requirements
Sandford Award Application Form 2026
Guidance for Applicants 2026
Example Application
Example Application


Eligibility Requirements

Sandford Award is open to all heritage organisations large and local, urban and rural across the UK, (including the Republic of Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man) that have a site and/or a collection and deliver a formal learning programme. Please refer to our Eligibility Requirements before starting an application.

Entry process

To apply for a Sandford Award, you need to complete an application form and submit it by email. 

Entry fee

The application fee for the 2026 Sandford Awards is £425 per site. This fee is reviewed annually and may be subject to change. If your organisation manages multiple sites, a separate application and fee must be submitted for each individual site.

Award validity

The Sandford Award is valid for five years. After this period, sites are invited to reapply for the Award. If the quality mark is withdrawn or the Award expires without renewal, the organisation must remove the Sandford Award logo and any references to the Award from its communications and promotional materials.

Sandford Awards 2026: Key dates

Stay informed with the key dates for the 2026 Sandford Award process.
📅 Application period
  • Opens: Monday 1 December 2025
  • Closes: Friday 13 February 2026 
🏛️ Assessment phase
  • Begins: March
  • Ends: Friday 17 July
During this period, onsite assessment visits will take place. Assessors will observe educational sessions, meet staff and volunteers, and review relevant documentation.
📝 Report and review
After assessments conclude:
  • Assessors compile detailed reports
  • Reports undergo moderation
  • Reports are reviewed by the full Assessors’ Panel
🧭 Final decision
  • Early September:
The Assessors’ Panel meets to discuss findings and submit recommendations to the Board of Trustees of the Heritage Education Trust for ratification.
  • Shortly After:
Applicants are notified of the outcome and receive a copy of their assessor’s report.
🎉 Presentation ceremony
  • Date: TBC
  • Time: TBC
  • Venue: TBC
Join us in celebrating high quality in heritage learning at this prestigious event.

Banner image: M&S Archive, Sandford Award holder