Sandford Award-winning Library and Collections Learning and Engagement Team

We are delighted that the quality of the team’s formal and informal learning programmes and their work with local schools and communities has been recognised by this independent and prestigious national award. 

The Sandford Award is managed by the Heritage Education Trust and is the quality mark for heritage learning at UK heritage sites that offer a formal learning programme. The award, which lasts for five years, has previously been held by the team from 2016-2021 and 2021-2026 with the latest award running from 2026-2031.  

Following an on-site visit earlier in the year, the most recent assessment report concluded: 

“The Oriental Museum in Durham University has an exceptional collection from Asia, Egypt, the Near and Middle East, and provides an exemplary learning offer. It is part of a coordinated service that extends across the University Library and Collections. The museum’s world-class collections provide learning opportunities for all ages and many abilities, from infants to elders, schoolchildren to… [people living with dementia and other health challenges]. Friendly and knowledgeable staff, strong ambitions for learning, good organisation, and inspirational activities and sessions make this a place to feed the mind and fuel the imagination.” 

The assessor also recognised the team’s contribution to wider university strategic goals, including widening participation, academic achievement and external and community engagement. 

The Learning and Engagement Team work with around 16,000 pupils each year, as well as running regular community events, festivals and groups which last year attracted over 6,000 children and adults  

For more information about the team and their work, or to find out about how you can take part in some of our community activities, visit our website.