Sandford Award assessment process

The Sandford Award recognises heritage organisations that deliver high-quality learning experiences. Applications are assessed against the Award’s established criteria and quality standards.

Before you apply, please ensure your site or collection meets the eligibility requirements. Once applications close, a volunteer assessor will be assigned to your site. They will contact you by email with:

An introduction letter and details of what the assessment visit involves
A request for suggested dates for the assessor’s visit
A request for key information in advance of the visit (e.g., the day’s schedule, details of visiting groups- in particular the focus of their visit and learning outcomes expected from the visit. )

On the day of the assessment visit, the assessor will also need to review evidence relating to the statutory requirements (Criterion 6).

Assessment process

Visit period: Most assessments take place between March and mid-July, though visits outside this timeframe may be possible.
Who visits: Typically, one volunteer assessor will visit your site, sometimes accompanied by a trainee.
After the visit: The assessor writes a detailed report, which is reviewed and moderated. Their recommendation is then submitted to the Board of Trustees of the Heritage Education Trust, who make the final decision in early September.

Applicants are notified shortly after the meeting and receive a copy of the report.