During this Question Time Style debate, hear the perspectives from a range of speakers across the sector on the trajectory of the higher education sector following the recent elections. Speakers will examine the potential policy shifts and their impacts on student support, government funding, and regulatory frameworks to paint a clearer picture of how the new government is going to impact the student accommodation sector and how you can best prepare.

Moderated by: Paddy Jackman and Sam Kingsley 

The prospects for student accommodation in UK rests on many factors. But arguably the most central is the outlook for the number and nature of students going to UK universities. What does the data this year say about that future, and the pattern of opportunities and risks for the business of providing them with a bed?

During the breaks we encourage informal gatherings that bring together attendees with similar interests, roles, or challenges, to network, share ideas, and collaborate. Grab a coffee (or tea), choose a zone, and enjoy a relaxed, informal setting to connect with like-minded individuals.

 During this Question Time Style debate, participants will delve into the diverse needs of different international students and explore the gap between their expectations and experiences in student accommodation. By drawing out the differences in preferences among international students, the session will facilitate a deeper understanding of their unique perspectives and challenges.

Moderated by StudentCrowd

A comprehensive discussion on current deals, lessons from abroad, and the impact of interest rate fluctuations with a focus on identifying opportunities and challenges for investors.

• Exploring the opportunities and challenges for investor both at home and abroad
• Examining what deals are being made in the market and their implications for the rest of the sector
• Unpacking how fluctuating interest rates influence investor behaviour- what can we expect?
• Beyond PBSA- what opportunities does the HMO market present to investors?

Moderated by: Mark Quigley 

Speakers in this session will address a broad range of strategic sustainability and responsible business priorities relevant to the provision of Student Accommodation. The panel will then provide insights and discuss tactical approaches to addressing these risks in a financially viable manner. From energy consumption reductions and carbon management to biodiversity net gain and student behaviours, this panel has direct experience in designing, building, operating, and financing world class student accommodation.

• Pragmatic strategies and case studies that demonstrate value of high efficiency new build and refurbishment projects
• How biodiversity net gain can be integrated to the portfolio
• How student engagement can be simplified to reduce consumption and improve the student experience
• Optimising existing estates through retrofitting and repurposing old stock

Moderated by: Richard Brabner

In this session, speakers will discuss how student accommodation providers can improve inclusivity, accessibility, and affordability in their offerings in order to tap into a wider audience and ensure long-term success in a competitive market.

Moderated by: Sam Kingsley 

This discussion will explore digital solutions to challenges faced by the sector and new innovations to enhance the university experience and prepare for the next generation of students. 

• Understanding and meeting the needs and expectations of the new, digital native generation
• The role of AI- how will increased automation both impact operational performance and the student experience?
• Exploring how technology can improve the lives of both students and workers in accommodations 

Moderated by: Gemma Le Marquer

 An honest discussion on the relationship and similarities between the two industries and what we can learn from taking a hospitality approach to the student market.

Moderated by: Paddy Jackman

During the breaks we encourage informal gatherings that bring together attendees with similar interests, roles, or challenges, to network, share ideas, and collaborate. Grab a coffee (or tea), choose a zone, and enjoy a relaxed, informal setting to connect with like-minded individuals.

Hear first-hand from a diverse panel of  students’ perspectives on how their accommodation impacts their university experience and what they would like to see going forward.

Moderated by: Deenie Lee, Co-Founder, Property Marketing Strategists