Edinburgh Zoo is delighted to have received a prestigious award for its work within the field of education.

Edinburgh Zoo, which was nominated anonymously, received the award in acknowledgment of the high quality of its educational programmes and facilities.

The Sandford Award is normally given to historic and heritage properties but special recognition was given due to the Zoo’s focus on living heritage - locally, nationally and internationally.

Edinburgh Zoo is only the second zoo in the UK to receive the award. Two judges visited the Zoo in May and spent the day examining the wide range of educational procedures in place including formal lessons, keeper talks and animal handling session.

The Education Centre at the Zoo opened in 1976 and has achieved success by not only focusing on educational activities in a classroom setting, but on making the most of the open, interactive and stimulating environment of the Zoo surroundings. The Zoo’s education programme focuses on the importance of living, natural heritage, including topics on sustainability, conservation, zoology and other environmental issues.

The Zoo also offers outreach programmes for children from schools in deprived areas, a Science Summer School for budding scientists and an autumn session focussing on sustainability.

Sue Mitchell from the Heritage Education Trust which issues the Sandford Award said: “Through a variety of multi-sensory experiences the Zoo raises awareness in visitors of what that heritage is, the issues surrounding conservation and the action being taken to safeguard it for future generations. A dedicated team of education staff, magnificent living resources and high quality facilities all combine to ensure that a visit to Edinburgh Zoo will be a motivational experience for learners of all ages.”

David Windmill, chief executive of The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, which owns Edinburgh Zoo, said: “We are thrilled that Edinburgh Zoo has received recognition of its extensive work within education.

“This award recognises the importance in educating children and visitors about conservation and the natural world, from our schools programmes to informal public education. I’d like to thank the education department as it is their enthusiasm and commitment to education that has made this possible.”