Rosslyn Chapel’s learning programmes have been recognised with a prestigious Sandford Award for Heritage Education.
Sandford Awards are given to organisations which demonstrate the delivery of high-quality heritage education. They focus on formal, curriculum-aligned heritage learning, although recognition is also given to informal learning such as family programmes and outreach. Applicants carry out a self-assessment of their work, consult with their service users and present evidence of achievement against six assessment criteria. This is reviewed by an experienced assessor and followed up by an assessment of the education service and a report. The award is valid for 5 years.
The assessors praised the variety of learning programmes on offer at Rosslyn Chapel. In particular, they recognised the partnership with Roslin Primary School, where P7 pupils become ‘Junior Tour Guides’ and host visits from other local schools. In their citation, they said that ‘children who visit Rosslyn Chapel will long remember a fascinating day, enjoying a range of interesting and exciting activities for children of all ages. The education sessions are well researched, thoughtfully planned and resourced, and professionally delivered using a variety of approaches. The children’s engagement with this unique and amazing place will be as inspirational to them as the building has been to so many visitors in the past.’
Ian Gardner, Director of Rosslyn Chapel Trust, said ‘It is a great achievement to receive this prestigious award for our learning programmes at the Chapel. This important work, led by Sarah Chapman, our Learning and Outreach Co-ordinator, helps younger visitors to appreciate Rosslyn Chapel in a fun, creative and memorable way.‘
Caption: Some of the Chapel’s new Junior Tour Guides help to celebrate the Chapel’s Sandford Award