Berkshire-based history and outdoor education centre, Ufton Court, has once again been recognized for its exceptional dedication to heritage learning. On Tuesday, December 10, 2024, Ufton Court was presented with the prestigious Sandford Award at the historic Kensington Palace. This award celebrates the centre’s commitment to providing outstanding educational experiences in its historic setting.
The 2024 Sandford Awards, managed by Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in partnership with the Heritage Education Trust and supported by Historic Royal Palaces, recognized 36 winners this year. Among the esteemed winners were iconic sites such as Windsor Castle, the National Army Museum, and a Victorian steamship. The diverse range of winners highlights the crucial role that heritage sites play in both formal and informal education.
Professor Andrew Jackson of BGU expressed his admiration for the winners, stating, “The number and diversity of winners are a testament to the important role of our sites and organizations, and reflects the dedication of their staff to heritage education and learning. BGU is proud to support and champion their efforts.”
Ufton Court, located in Reading, is a 500-year-old Tudor manor house surrounded by 44 acres of ancient woodland. Operated by the Ufton Court Educational Trust, a registered charity, the site is a leading provider of experiential history school trips for children. Since first receiving the Sandford Award in 2009, Ufton Court has consistently delivered immersive, curriculum-aligned history programs that inspire and engage students.
This year’s judges praised Ufton Court for its innovative approach, stating, “A visit to Ufton Court is a unique experience set in a stunning landscape that invites pupils to take on the role of characters from history. Practical, exciting activities, from creating a Viking shield wall to raiding an original Tudor Manor House, make learning tangible and dynamic. Skilled staff immerse pupils in a historic narrative using drama to foster confidence and develop skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and historical enquiry. The interactive workshops are developed in close collaboration with practising teachers and are highly recommended by schools for engaging pupils of all abilities.”
This recognition highlights the power of Ufton Court’s immersive history trips, which cover national curriculum topics such as the Tudors, Saxons, Vikings, and WWII. Complemented by nature-based outdoor learning programmes, Ufton Court promotes academic progress and personal development.
Dr. Tracy Borman, OBE, Chief Executive of the Heritage Education Trust, also commented on the significance of this year’s awards, saying, “From iconic historic buildings such as Windsor Castle, Whitby Abbey, and the Roman Baths to art galleries, archives, ships, and even a farm, they are all united by the excellence of their education provision. My heartfelt congratulations go to all the worthy winners of 2024.”
Beyond history, Ufton Court offers a range of educational programmes, including outdoor residential trips such as Bushcraft for KS2 and KS3 students, and The Nest, a therapeutic alternative learning provision for children. The centre also partners directly with schools to support small groups of children through a day-a-week, term-time programme. As a charity, Ufton Court subsidizes visits for children from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring that its enriching experiences are accessible to all.
For more information about Ufton Court’s educational programmes, please visit their website at https://www.uftoncourt.org.uk.
Media Contact:
Sanchita Powell
Marketing & Business Development Manager
enquiries@ufton.org.uk
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