The internationally recognised awards celebrate excellence, creativity and impact across museums, galleries and heritage organisations worldwide. The Learning Programme of the Year category highlights outstanding initiatives that transform how people engage with history, culture and learning. The awards ceremony will take place in London on Wednesday 13 May, with the National Civil War Centre shortlisted alongside organisations including the Natural History Museum, the Fitzwilliam Museum and Jane Austen’s House.

A project built on partnership

The World Turned Upside Down is the result of a strong collaboration between academics, teachers and museum professionals, brought together by a shared aim to make the British Civil Wars accessible, engaging and relevant for young people of all ages and abilities. The project grew from a simple idea: to bring the hands‑on excitement of a museum visit into classrooms across the country. By combining historical expertise, creative teaching approaches and the power of museum objects, the partnership set out to add depth, colour and human stories to a period of history often taught in stark terms.

A game‑changing resource for schools

The resulting suite of learning resources, including an illustrated book, podcast series and online learning hub, has been widely praised by teachers, who have described it as “game changing” for classroom learning. The programme supports curriculum delivery while encouraging curiosity, critical thinking and engagement with history through multiple formats.

Denise Greany, Learning and Participation Manager at the National Civil War Centre, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have ‘The World Turned Upside Down’ shortlisted for such a prestigious award. Whether we win or not, being recognised alongside such inspiring organisations is a real honour.”

Councillor Rowan Cozens, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and the Arts at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “This national recognition is a testament to the creativity, expertise and commitment of everyone involved in delivering The World Turned Upside Down. The programme shows how heritage can be brought to life for young people in meaningful and inspiring ways, and it is fantastic to see the National Civil War Centre and its partners celebrated on such a prestigious stage.”

The shortlisting reflects the collective effort behind the programme and its growing impact in schools across the country. Whether or not the project takes home the award, the recognition highlights the value of partnership‑led learning and the National Civil War Centre’s continued commitment to excellence in education.