Bruce Castle Museum, Haringey’s “house full of stories”, has won a prestigious national award recognising the high-quality educational activities available at the site.
The Sandford Award scheme has been running since 1978 and is managed by the Heritage Education Trust in partnership with Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln. It is the only nationally recognised quality mark for heritage learning and provides independent assurance for heritage sites and services.
Bruce Castle has been awarded alongside a number of world-famous heritage sites including St Paul’s Cathedral, Cardiff Castle and Hampton Court Palace.
The much-loved Tottenham landmark is a Grade I listed former 16th Century manor house and home to the London Borough of Haringey's Museum and Archive. It hosts a wide range of events and activities for people of all ages, as well as school visits engaging around 3,000 primary-school age children each year.
Cllr Emily Arkell, Cabinet Member for Culture, Communities and Leisure, said:
“Bruce Castle Museum is a really special place for everyone in Haringey, so we’re delighted that it has been recognised with a Sandford Award. The museum is already highly valued across London for the excellent activities available to schools and families, so it’s great to see the team’s hard work rewarded on the national level.
“There’s lots on offer at the museum in the next few weeks, including the launch of a new exhibition on the Windrush generation, our annual Haringey History Fair, and a range of fun activities for children during half-term. I hope this award inspires even more residents to visit and discover our borough’s diverse and fascinating heritage.”
The lead assessor for the Sandford Awards, Sarah Castle, said:
“Bruce Castle Museum is a house full of stories and a place where children and young people can discover what makes Haringey special. Pupils can take inspiration from local celebrities such as Luke Howard – the man who named the clouds – and Walter Tull – the former Spurs player who became the first British-born Black Army Officer. They can get hands-on with fossils, discover how Haringey high streets have changed over time, or experience life as a Victorian child. With a collection of amazing real objects and archives at their fingertips, the education and learning team creatively bring both history and the National Curriculum to life!”
Find out more about Bruce Castle Museum and plan your visit at www.brucecastle.org
