Discover Bucks Museum is delighted to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious Sandford Award, the nationally recognised quality mark for heritage learning programmes.
Managed by the Heritage Education Trust, the Sandford Award celebrates excellence in formal and informal learning provision at museums, heritage sites, archives and cultural organisations across the UK. The award recognises organisations that deliver outstanding educational experiences, support curriculum learning, and inspire engagement with heritage.
Following an independent assessment of the museum’s learning programme, the assessor praised Discover Bucks Museum’s approach to education, stating:
“In the heart of Aylesbury – in one of its oldest buildings – stories of Buckinghamshire from 200 million years ago to today are waiting to be told. The Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages, the Roman invasion and the Anglo-Saxon settlement of Britain, all are brought to life through the objects in the galleries and the skills of learning team staff. Situated alongside the museum is The Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery, where this famous Buckinghamshire author is celebrated, and where children can explore scientific principles through hands-on interactives. School workshops prioritise discovery, wonder and fun, and the team are great at knowing what children – and teachers – want. You are guaranteed to have a phizz-whizzing time!!”
The award recognises the exceptional work of the museum’s Learning Team, led by Education Manager Becca Woodford, who deliver a wide range of workshops, school visits, family learning activities and outreach programmes throughout the year. From hands-on history sessions and object handling to immersive exhibitions and curriculum-linked workshops, the museum welcomes thousands of children and young people annually to explore Buckinghamshire’s rich heritage.
Commenting on the achievement, Chief Executive Sam Mason said:
“We are delighted to receive this national recognition for the quality of our education programmes. A great deal of time and effort goes into making sure that our visitors get a meaningful, fun and interactive learning experience and this accolade fully supports that.
I give my sincere thanks to our Education Manager, Becca Woodford, and her dedicated learning team, not only for achieving the award, but also for developing the education programme into the quality offering it has become and the continuous work that goes into delivering it behind the scenes.
A very proud moment for Discover Bucks Museum, the staff team and Board of Trustees.”
The Sandford Award is widely regarded as one of the highest accolades in heritage learning, providing independent validation of the quality, effectiveness and impact of educational programmes. The award demonstrates Discover Bucks Museum’s commitment to delivering engaging, inclusive and curriculum-focused learning experiences for schools, families and community groups.
This recognition comes as the museum continues to expand its learning offer, including workshops linked to major exhibitions such as The Saxons, family activities, early years programmes and opportunities for lifelong learning.
Discover Bucks Museum looks forward to welcoming more schools and families in the coming year and continuing to inspire curiosity, creativity and a love of local history through its award-winning learning programme.
About the Sandford Award
The Sandford Award is the quality mark for heritage learning and recognises heritage sites and services that provide outstanding educational opportunities. Established in 1978, the award is managed by the Heritage Education Trust and celebrates excellence in heritage education across the UK.
For more information about learning opportunities at Discover Bucks Museum, visit our Learning pages or contact the museum’s Learning Team.
