The Museum of East Dorset Wins Sandford Award for Heritage Education

Since 1978, The Heritage Education Trust has been running the Sandford Award to praise heritage sites across the UK that run educational programmes. It is the only scheme in existence that judges formal learning programmes at heritage sites, with a particular focus on how sites such as the Museum of East Dorset can link to the curriculum children are learning in the classroom.

Engage with the past. Be inspired for the future.

Education is central to the Museum of East Dorset’s ethos and values and the team were delighted to have excelled in all judged categories. The assessor was particularly impressed by the dedication of the experienced volunteers and how “In all sessions, the long history of the building and the extensive collections were utilised to inspire children to discover the stories of the past that the museum holds, to make learning fun, active and memorable”. He said, “One of the most captivating parts to see in use is the range in the kitchen, where children can also use original or replica items, including weighing scales and toasting forks.”

The Museum of East Dorset goes to great lengths to ensure its education curriculum is as inclusive as possible. Activities and resources are created to encourage and inspire learning for all ability levels.

The museum’s Director, Chezzie Hollow added, “I’m so thrilled. It’s a wonderful recognition of our long-standing commitment to learning at a time when many organisations in the sector have had to make cuts. Our dedicated team of volunteers are passionate about creating an environment that makes heritage learning engaging, inspiring and accessible to all”.