The Ulster Museum has beaten competition from across the UK and won the Sandford Award for Museum and Heritage education.

The accreditation scheme is awarded to museums that achieve excellence in their education provision. Since reopening last October, almost 22,000 school children have participated in organised learning programmes at the Ulster Museum.

Judges praised the staff for bringing heritage to life and helping children to understand the power of art to express ideas, emotions and concepts.

Paddy Gilmore, director of learning and partnership for National Museums Northern Ireland, said he was delighted: “To be given the Sandford ‘seal of approval’ reflects the education team’s commitment to providing visitors with high-quality, relevant and informative education programmes. The museum’s education offering is designed to fascinate, enthuse and connect all ages with the Ulster Museum’s collections and exhibitions.” mr.