FINALIST ENTRY SUMMARIES

Affordable/HMO Accommodation of the Year

Derwent Facilities Management: Derwent FM excels in providing affordable, high-quality student housing. Through our Derwent Students brand, we offer competitively priced, all-inclusive accommodations with mental health support, eco-friendly practices, and community engagement initiatives, setting new standards in student property management

FAT Properties: "FAT Properties are award winning pioneers in providing high-quality, affordable HMOs which enhance student well-being. Our mission is to create homes that support the academic and personal success of our students through high quality, innovative design and outstanding management. 

Fletcher Joseph Architects: Delivered by Downing Construction Limited, The Mont offers a unique high-quality student accommodation on an unbeaten location at the heart of Edinburgh city centre. Its design reinstates the residential use of the street, using traditional cladding materials, but it also looking at the future with an energy efficient building.

Kexgill Group/University Quarter: Keep it simple to keep it affordable. While new PBSA developments often come with elaborate amenities, more affordable options are needed. The University Quarter® strategy addresses this need by prioritizing comfort, safety, wellbeing, and cost-effective space use. Affordable housing is crucial for maintaining diverse and vibrant student communities.

King's College London: KCL is an internationally renowned university delivering education and world-leading research. We are dedicated to driving positive and sustainable change in society and realising our vision of making the world a better place. As such providing safe and secure living environments at an affordable price to our students throughout their

Student Depot; The Student Depot dormitory in Lublin has been operating for 8 years. You can stay in one of single or double rooms, mainly cluster type, with 300 places at your disposal. The dormitory was the third in SD portfolio. The student house was gradually renovated last year.

The University of Warwick: Cryfield is a testament to the belief that affordability should not come at the cost of quality. The University of Warwick is committed to providing a spectrum of accommodation types that cater to various budgets, ensuring no student is left behind due to financial constraints.

Agency Team of the Year

Amber Internet Solution: Founded in 2016, amber is a leading global student housing solution provider, working with PBSAs, HMOs, and universities. Boasting 1M+ verified student housing listings in 250+ cities across 25 countries and 6 regions, amber specializes in the international student market, serving a network of 80 million students from 160+ countries.

City Room Rentals: City Room Rentals is a specialist in consultancy and booking management services for Universities and Purpose-Built Student Accommodation providers across the UK.

Harris Associates: Harris Associates is the UK's Innovative Investment Agency. Undertaking over £1 billion in transactions in 2023, Harris Associates have redefined how PBSA is marketed via the launch of in-house marketing agency Harris Studios. By leveraging social media and video, Harris Studios has achieved unprecedented results for its clients.

JLL: JLL’s diverse team of investment advisors has done more to activate capital in the student accommodation market, than any other UK agency. Renowned for creative problem solving that unlocks transactions, they closed the largest PBSA-related deal of the last twelve months and transacted over 32% of all agent-represented student beds.

Knight Frank: Knight Frank’s Student Property team advises on Purpose-Built Student Accommodation located throughout the UK and Europe. The team provides agency and valuations advice to funds, institutions, universities, operators and developers, and is the largest and the most established team in the sector with an unrivalled track record.

Student First Group: Student First Group was named with careful and specific purpose. We are independent, diverse professional advisors with a strong ethos of ‘putting the student first’, leading universities and partners through the strategy, delivery and operation of sustainable student accommodation. We are proud of our impressive track record and thought leadership.

The Property Marketing Strategists: The Property Marketing Strategists have continued to redefine property marketing and deliver unparalleled value to their growing client base. Through their latest research focusing on international students, their Youth Forum research and newly launched podcast they share insights to improve industry practices and foster innovation in the sector.

UCAS: At UCAS, we deliver outstanding support by connecting developers, universities, operators, and investors with students through marketing, insights, and data. Our sales team partners with customers as an extension of their marketing and insight teams, understanding their needs to maximize impact and achieve objectives.

Climate Crisis Initiative - Student Property

Derwent: Derwent FM leads the student property sector in tackling the climate crisis with innovative initiatives in energy efficiency, waste reduction, and biodiversity. Our schemes boast BREEAM 'Excellent' and 'Outstanding' ratings, while our comprehensive ESG strategy and community projects set a benchmark for sustainability.

Yugo: GSA and Yugo's redevelopment of St. Crispin's House saved 4,700 metric tons of carbon, achieved a 107% biodiversity net gain, and recycled 99.6% of construction waste. The building’s industry-leading all-electric heating, green roofs, and efficient lighting have created a vibrant, eco-friendly living space where students can thrive.

Collaboration Award

City Room Rentals: City Room Rentals' expertise lies in sourcing suitable student accommodation options in the purpose-built student accommodation sector for Universities with additional accommodation requirements. The team was successfully able to help the University of Strathclyde acquire additional rooms to house their overspill students.

Equans: The Student Living - University of Birmingham partnership with Equitix and Equans at Pritchatts Park Village demonstrates genuine collaboration in delivering the University’s ambitious vision for the campus. Working with a wide range of stakeholders, they developed a sector-leading, sustainable student village that has exceeded University expectations.

McComb Students: McComb Students and the University of Bolton's partnership excels in student accommodation, focusing on safety, well-being, and community. This collaboration includes regular mental health training, proactive welfare support through the Life Lounge, and exceptional accommodation standards, creating a secure and supportive environment for students.

MORPH: The Talgo Residence project exemplifies a successful collaboration between the private sector and a university, resulting in a high-quality, sustainable, and inclusive student residence. The innovative approach, positive outcomes, and commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the ESG agenda make this project a strong contender for the award.

UCAS: UCAS connects students with universities, schools, advisors, and employers to create opportunities and shape futures. By linking students with supportive accommodation providers, UCAS sets them up for success, demonstrating strong collaboration across these sector

King's College London and urbanest Student Accommodation: urbanest and King’s College London are proud to submit for the Collaboration Award, showcasing our joint efforts in GradPlus, and the growth in accommodation at urbanest Battersea, reflecting our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and enhancing the student experience.

Deal of the Year

Abodus Student Living: The Skyfall deal, valued at approximately £150 million stands as a transformative milestone in the student accommodation sector over the past year. This acquisition not only signifies a major financial undertaking but also demonstrates sector-wide impact.

Assetz Capital: Assetz Capital is a specialist marketplace lender, founded in 2013 to deliver fairer lending to businesses. To date, it has lent in excess of £1.7 billion to UK SMEs, property developers and housebuilders through pioneering ‘real word lending’ solutions.

CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang: CMS advised Urbanest on their Trafalgar Way development which will become Europe’s largest purpose-built student accommodation scheme, having a gross development value of c.£500m. CMS is one of the first firms to establish a specialised student accommodation multi-disciplinary practice group that supports clients in all facets of this dynamic sector.

Zenzic Capital: Zenzic Capital is a leading real estate credit and special situations investment manager. This year Zenzic launched a £500m UK PBSA strategy, seeded with a £147m portfolio in a joint venture with Torsion Group. In the period, Zenzic has provided £75m of capital to projects with a GDV of £300m+.

Staffordshire Campus Living (a consortium of HOCHTIEF PPP Solutions, Plenary, Staffordshire University, Willmott Dixon, and Pinnacle): A contemporary and sustainable Student Village close to Staffordshire University’s nature reserve and the River Trent. It will achieve Net Zero Carbon in Operation and achieve energy-efficiency excellence. And we believe it is the only student accommodation DBFO project of its kind to reach financial close this year.

Maslow Capital: At an impressive £113 million, Lillian Penson Hall represents one of the largest single loans for PBSA development financing provided in the UK throughout the year. This project is set to deliver a remarkable 356 beds, addressing a substantial shortfall in London’s outdated PBSA Supply.

Nido Living: CPP’s acquisition of Nido Living highlights that operational excellence is key to driving performance and influencing intelligent investment and development decisions. Nido is now a vertically integrated PBSA platform, with capital to deploy for growth, and a shared commitment to ESG, whilst continuing to pioneer on wellbeing and student experience.

Cain International: Cain International is one of the UK’s most dynamic investors in student housing. In the past 12 months, it completed one of the sector’s standout deals – the £500m forward-funding agreement alongside Menora Mivtachim Group to deliver 2,389 beds, including the world’s tallest PBSA scheme, across five Russell Group cities.

Student Homes Management: Student Homes is the fastest growing student HMO owner in the country. In less than three years, we have built a portfolio of circa 2,200 beds across thirteen high-in-demand university cities. We aim to set a new market standard by bringing high quality and affordable student accommodation across the country.

Torsion Group: Torsion and Zenzic have formed a joint venture to capitalise on the student accommodation sector, leveraging growing student numbers, supply shortages, and inflation-protected income profiles. This partnership aims to deliver high-quality, sustainable student housing while accelerating growth in the PBSA market.

Developer of the Year – Student Property

Alumno Group: Three unique PBSA schemes in three different cities. All taking into account the character of their location and with sensitively curated public art and special features Alumno has taken placemaking to the next level. Students have state of the art facilities along with a sense of place and belonging.

Blacklight Capital Partners: Blacklight, as a recent entrant to the PBSA market, has produced in excess of 1,500 beds, all of which are now operational. Its assets are of proven quality and scale, having attracted high profile institutional equity and debt funding and end-buyers, all during historically difficult market conditions.

Torsion Group: Torsion excels in the PBSA sector, delivering projects on time and budget while securing significant partnerships, including a £147 million joint venture with Zenzic Capital. Their focus on sustainability and high-quality, affordable student accommodation across prime university cities positions them for continued success.

Health & Wellbeing Initiative - Student Property

Nido Living: Wellbeing is embedded within Nido’s mission, vision, and values ensuring students have the best experience whichever Nido residence they live in. Nido continues to pioneer partnerships and initiatives with 97% of tenants believing we care about their wellbeing, 4.5/5 average review scores, and NPS 10 points above the industry benchmark.

Derwent Facilities Management: Derwent FM champions health and wellbeing through mental health first aid training, strategic partnerships, and community projects. Our award-winning initiatives include tree planting, biodiversity enhancement, and extensive ESG efforts, setting new standards in student property management and fostering supportive, sustainable environments for all.

Yugo: Yugo’s ‘Live Your Best Life’ programme enhances student life through its holistic approach to sustainability, well-being, and career readiness. From eco-friendly infrastructure and engaging social activities to unique professional development opportunities, Yugo’s St. Crispin’s House fosters a vibrant, supportive community that goes the extra mile for students and the environment.

Harrison Street (The Aspen): The Aspen is the perfect example of student accommodation built to the highest health and wellbeing standards using the latest technology solutions and tailored social programmes to benefit the internal and external community, all while supporting wider initiatives to drive health and wellbeing across the industry as a whole.

Joint Living: Joint Living was created as an in house agency for a group of landlords who felt their tenants where not being treated fairly. We have shown that by putting tenants first you can still achieve profits and now have a higher renewal and average rental price than ever.

Study Inn: Study Inn's deep-rooted student health & wellbeing focus was demonstrated through:

o Industry leading app and social events o State-of-the-art facilities tailored to student wellbeing

o StudentCrowd Awards for all locations it operates in

o +34 net promoter score (143% higher than benchmark), and Gold Certified Operator by GSL Index

Inclusion in Student Accommodation Award

Yugo: At Yugo, diversity and inclusion underpin our global community. With over 110 living spaces in over 70 of the top cities globally, we support students from 56 nationalities. Our "Live Your Best Life" programme fosters belonging through events, mental health resources, and professional development. Yugo ensures every student feels empowered.

Homes for Students: HFS are committed to its people and residents, championing inclusion and diversity. Designed around the pillars of inclusivity they created an in-house “Together is Better programme” (TIB) to demonstrate they are a business that celebrates each unique individual so they can be their true authentic selves at home and work.

London School of Economics and Political Science: Diversity, equity and inclusion is at the heart of the London School of Economics and Political Science. Students from underrepresented groups are well supported through inclusion strategies, physical accessibility and disability needs, cost-of-living programmes, 24/7 in-person wellbeing support and student engagement initiatives which is all supported by a long-term plan.

McComb Students: McComb Students excels in fostering inclusivity with initiatives like the African Cup of Nations support for Nigerian students. Our commitment to cultural celebrations, mental health support, and accessible living environments creates a welcoming, diverse community where all students thrive.

UPP: At Yugo, diversity and inclusion underpin our global community. With over 110 living spaces in over 70 of the top cities globally, we support students from 56 nationalities. Our "Live Your Best Life" programme fosters belonging through events, mental health resources, and professional development. Yugo ensures every student feels empowered.

Innovation Award

Yugo: Offering various ways for students to get involved, the Yugo Movement empowers students to make an impact. The Movement has revolutionised the student living experience by focusing on sustainability and personal development. Through Carbon Literacy Training, global networking, and personal branding workshops, Yugo fosters leadership, environmental responsibility, and community involvement.

Homes for Students: HFS, the UK’s leading PBSA provider, designed, developed & launched the KLIQ app to revolutionise student living. KLIQ manages GEN Z’s expectations and promotes socialising, communication, resident wellbeing. Overall, greatly improving facility management. Achievements: 82,378 downloads, increased student engagement, a significant rise in satisfaction levels, demonstrating HFS's commitment to innovation.

Kinetic Software: For 25 years, Kinetic has provided ever-evolving student accommodation, wellbeing and event management solutions to the Higher Education, PBSA and residential accommodation sectors. In 2024, Kinetic launched KxEngage; the ultimate student engagement and community app, transforming the student experience and connecting students and accommodation teams within the spaces they share.

Accommodation Essex: After reading about students wanting to feel like They fit in, identify with a community when they start university in the UCAS report, we conducted focus groups aimed to gather primary research from students on what community groups they would want to see in accommodation to help them.

University of Southampton: Our submission highlights a groundbreaking student housing initiative that integrates laundry into rent, increasing customer satisfaction from 58% to 82% within 10 months. Using the voice of the student, and by challenging the status quo, we’ve improved student budgeting, enhanced sustainability and set sector-wide standards in laundry provision.

Utopi: Utopi is now a name synonymous with innovation, with insights, and with transforming the ESG data landscape of the PBSA sector. We believe in making data acquisition simple, and empowering our clients to build greener more sustainable communities. Data, Action, Impact, its building performance made simple.

Interior Design of the Year

A Designer at Heart: YourTRIBE Old Kent Road: A Designer at Heart is a global interior design agency with a passion for shared living. We work with the residential living sectors to create homes that foster community through beautiful spaces. Our clients bring the communities, we give them the place to be!

Nido Living: Nido has created a state-of-the-art residence in partnership with an award-winning interior designer at Nido Randwyck in Maastricht. The development features amenities, sustainability attributes and has been designed for wellbeing, the promotion of socialising and community creation, demonstrating that affordable student studios don’t have to compromise on quality.

Empiric Student Property: ESP refurbished St. Marks in Leeds, upgrading 49 rooms and converting a disused car park into high-quality new amenity space, including a gym, private dining space, study space and entertainment room. The project’s design delivered a premium living experience far exceeding what is currently available in the market.

Jasper Sanders + Partners: Nestled opposite the esteemed University of Edinburgh Campus and a 10-minute stroll from Waverley Station, 16-18 Potterrow Student Living stands as a beacon of contemporary student accommodation in the heart of the city. Comprising 151 meticulously crafted studio apartments spread across six floors, this residence exudes sophistication and convenience.

Manalo & White: Manalo & White’s Amenity Space Design Guide for iQ Student Accommodation has transformed the iQ brand. Informed by user experience research and incorporating sustainable, durable materials, it has reinvigorated iQ’s amenity offer across multiple sites, with welcoming, defined spaces that are being far better received, used and enjoyed.

Marlix Student Living: Introducing luxury student living. Marlix is a brand new development of student accommodation in Derby comprising of 32 self-contained contemporary suites, set over four floors in the heart of Derby's University Quarter. At Marlix Student Living, we make choosing student accommodation as easy as possible and always exceed expectations.

Novel Student, Wick Park: Wick Park is an innovative, student-focused accommodation designed to inspire creativity. It features innovative design elements inspired by the local arts community, and with a focus on diverse study and social spaces. The property prioritizes sustainability and community engagement, offering a balanced and enriching student lifestyle.

Collegiate: Collegiate reinvented Italian student living by creating a best in class, state of the art, residential resort. It employs in house interior architects and designers that specify every fixture and fitting and monitor the delivery process to set us apart and provide our residents with a unique standard of living.

Student Homes Management: Student Homes is the fastest growing student HMO owner in the country. In less than three years, we have built a portfolio of circa 2,200 beds across thirteen high-in-demand university cities. We aim to set a new market standard by bringing high quality and affordable student accommodation across the country.

Whittam Cox Architects: Radical transformation of amenity spaces at an existing Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Bournemouth that recognises its unique seaside locality. With its new rooftop terrace and versatile bandstand, the design is inspired by piers, promenades, and fun fairs, creating a vibrant, engaging environment that enhances the student experience.

International Operator of the Year

Nido Living: Over the last year, Nido has continued to deliver a superlative student experience while increasing its focus on wellbeing, sustainability, community, and design & technology, and launching new state-of-the-art assets in new locations with a range of affordable tenures geared towards student wants and needs on the ground.

Yugo: Yugo is the leader in global student living, providing exceptional living spaces worldwide. With over 110 student living spaces in over 70 top world cities, Yugo supports over 40,000 students through innovative, student-centric environments. Each property features modern learning facilities, recreational spaces, and culturally reflective architecture.

Londonist DMC: Providing the best accommodation to students in London from offices in the UK, Turkiye, and China remains the ultimate focus of Londonist. It is a global service that attracts students from over 170 countries and partners with agents, institutions, and booking platforms across several continents.

micampus residencias: At micampus residences, we place a strong emphasis on our residents. We want them to be at the centre of everything we do, to be satisfied with their new home, and to fully enjoy one of the best stages of their lives.

Novel Student: In 2023, Novel Student successfully launched operations in Spain, overcoming diverse regional challenges to deliver exceptional student services. Despite entering new and varied markets within a short timeframe, our platform has demonstrated unwavering commitment to excellence, reflected in highly praised customer service by our residents.

Collegiate: Collegiate has reinvented student living with such a success that it expanded from the UK to Spain, Portugal and now Italy. During the last 20 years it has been involved 500 projects totalling over 250,000 beds making it the first choice for local and international students

Investor of the Year

Beaufort Capital: Established in 2013, the Beaufort team has financed and developed more than five million square feet of property of all asset classes across the UK and excels at creating opportunities where traditional funders are unable to provide the right solutions.

Zenzic Capital: Zenzic Capital is a leading real estate credit and special situations investment manager. This year Zenzic launched a £500m UK PBSA strategy, seeded with a £147m portfolio in a joint venture with Torsion Group. In the period, Zenzic has provided £75m of capital to projects with a GDV of £300m+.

Investec: : Investec Real Estate has continued to cement its position as one of the UK’s leading lenders in the student accommodation sector, providing £71mm of financing in the period to fund the development of 1,433 beds.

Harrison Street: Harrison Street is a leader in PBSA, having invested over €2.8 billion in approximately 62 student housing beds in partnership with experienced developers throughout Europe since 2015. Harrison Street’s strategy is dedicated to making an impact by implementing ESG practices and aligning with the needs of the firm’s University Partners.

Cain International: Cain International has secured nearly £600 million towards PBSA investment over the past year This includes a £500 million forward-funding deal for 2,389 beds in key UK university cities – one of the standout deals of the year – and a £91.5 million loan to Vita Group for 576 beds.

Tri7: Tri7, the specialist value-add real estate investment and asset management firm, has burst onto the student accommodation scene. In the past year alone, it has secured planning permission on 1,250 student beds, submitted planning on 623 more, and acquired three further sites with potential for PBSA use.

Student Homes Management: Student Homes is the fastest growing student HMO owner in the country. In less than three years, we have built a portfolio of circa 2,200 beds across thirteen high-in-demand university cities. We aim to set a new market standard by bringing high quality and affordable student accommodation across the country.

Legal/Professional Team – Student Property

CBRE:  The CBRE PBSA team values over 300,000 student beds each year representing 60% of the market. Clients continue to use us as their trusted advisor because of our depth of knowledge, supported by data driven insights, and our ability to turn around any project regardless of size or complexity.

CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang LLP: CMS is one of the first firms to establish a specialised student accommodation multi-disciplinary practice group that supports clients in all facets of this dynamic sector. The team has in-depth knowledge and experience of the student accommodation sector and lead transactions smoothly, reflecting deep market insight.

Eversheds Sutherland: Eversheds Sutherland’s PBSA team soundly delivered as legal advisers to many in the PBSA market. We secured new mandates from leaders in the field and advised on industry leading transactions for all funders, developers and investors. Clients come to us for commercial, strategic advice and industry connections.

Mills & Reeve: Mills & Reeve is centered on achieving more for clients, their businesses and communities. Our sector and market expertise helps us understand clients’ issues. We have a large ‘truly specialised’ university business group with a specialism in student accommodation projects, in which we have been described as “leading the market”.

Pearce Planning: Pearce Planning Ltd provides focused PBSA planning strategy and development management advice to leading PBSA providers and Universities across the Country. A team of 3, we provide a bespoke service to Fusion Students and Crown Student Living, manage leading consultancies delivering 10000 beds. RTPI Award 2024 / Global Award 2024.

Pinsent Masons: Pinsent Masons is a global law firm with a market-leading universities team; specialising in student accommodation private sector partnering, setting up branch campuses in other jurisdictions, advising on financing and complex governance. They are currently appointed by universities and private sector partners on transformational projects to deliver c10,000 bedrooms.

Operator of the Year (UK only)

Abodus Student Living: Abodus is a student accommodation provider, catering primarily to first-year students due to 70% of our 6,000 beds under nominations agreements.

Fresh:  Fresh, a premier third-party PBSA operator, manages 20,277 beds across the UK, delivering award-winning service and satisfaction. Our resident-focused approach has earned us top honours at the Global Student Living Awards for four consecutive years. Fresh excels in affordability, inclusivity, and sustainability, ensuring a supportive and thriving community for students.

Yugo: Yugo is the global leader in student accommodation, providing exceptional living spaces for over 40,000 students. Our properties blend modern amenities with historical architecture, creating a vibrant environment for academic success and wellbeing. With innovative support programmes, eco-friendly designs, and responsive customer service, Yugo sets the standard.

Homes for Students: HFS is the UK's top independent PBSA operator. With 1,000+ employees, HFS manages 45,000+ beds across 180+ properties. They developed the KLIQ app to enhance communication and social experiences. HFS champions innovation, resident experience, EDI, earning multiple awards and high satisfaction scores. Their sustainability initiatives include eco-friendly projects and community-engagement.

iQ Student Accommodation: At iQ, we’ve made it no secret that our top priority is giving our residents their best year yet. With 34,000 residents across 84 properties in the UK, it’s a mission our whole team is committed to delivering. Creating a resident’s best year yet is about creating truly memorable moments.

United Students: Unite Students is the UK’s largest owner, manager and developer of PBSA serving the country’s world-leading Higher Education sector. The Group prides itself on being the most innovative and trusted brand in the sector and providing a ‘Home for Success’ – where students have room to thrive.

Student Cribs: Founded in 2003, Student Cribs’ mission began out of frustration over the lack of quality housing available for students. Now the UK’s leading single provider of 2nd and 3rd year accommodation, we offer 1071 high quality properties across 25 cities, creating a new standard of student living.

Student Roost: Student Roost is an award-winning student accommodation provider and the third largest in the UK, offering more than a room to over 22,000 students across more than 50 properties located in 21 UK cities. In 2022, it joined Greystar’s family of student accommodation brands.

Study Inn: Study Inn’s student-centric design and hotel-like services enable residents to focus on what truly matters. SI’s unwavering commitment to providing an unmatched experience distinguishes them from the competition, as evidenced by their outstanding reviews, StudentCrowd awards, +34 NPS score (143% higher than benchmark), and Gold Certification from the GSL Index.

Now Student Living: Now Student Living is built on a culture of responsible investing and operating to create thriving student environments. Launched in August 2023, the groundbreaking platform boasts 23 buildings with c.10,000 beds across the UK & Ireland. Its Live Now programme, enriches student experiences through sustainability, cultural diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing.

UPP:  UPP, the UK’s leading provider of on-campus student accommodation, supports 35,000 students across 17 Universities. This year UPP launched a new operational platform and resident lifestyle App, won contracts with two new University partners and attracted 10,000 attendees to over 350 events, building a true home at halls for students.

Private Halls of Residence Award

Abodus Student Living: Abodus St James Glasgow offers state-of-the-art learning facilities. The ground floor study area accommodates over 100 students at desks. Complementing this are four smaller study spaces on different floors, catering to students who prefer quieter environments.

Fletcher Joseph Associates: Belfast’s largest PBSA scheme to date, Nelson Place delivers a unique student living experience that combines a market leading student environment with a purpose-built recreation and sports facility. Delivered to serve the expanding Ulster University campus, student wellbeing has been a central component of the project delivery and operational success.

Fresh: Calico, a 735-bed student accommodation in Liverpool, exemplifies the city's culture and innovation. Boasting a 91.5 GSLI score and Platinum Certification in 2024, Calico offers dynamic social spaces, a tailored wellbeing programme, and exceptional resident support. With a +69 NPS, residents thrive in this inclusive and vibrant community.

Yugo: St. Crispin’s House was developed by Global Student Accommodation (GSA) in partnership with McAleer & Rushe and is operated by Yugo with a focus on the student community where students can ‘Live Their Best Life’. With the first podcast studio in Europe – St. Crispin’s sets new global standards.

Goodenough College: Goodenough College is an independent educational charity which for 100 years has been providing a home for outstanding international postgraduates. We enable our student Members to form a strong community, sharing and developing their talents, knowledge and experience – helping to create a fellowship of global citizens with shared values.

Pickard Properties: Carlton Hill, a £65m PBSA in Leeds by Pickard Properties, offers 604 beds and prioritises sustainability, community, and student wellbeing. It features spacious rooms, wellbeing-focused social areas, and sustainable energy solutions. It achieved high ratings and supports Leeds's educational goals, setting a new standard for student accommodation.

Collegiate:  Collegiate has reinvented student living with such a success that it expanded from the UK to Spain, Portugal and now Italy. During the last 20 years it has been involved 500 projects totalling over 250,000 beds making it the first choice for local and international students.

Student Castle Cambridge: Student Castle Cambridge provides exceptional student accommodation, prioritising wellbeing, social integration, and academic support. Our facilities feature top-notch amenities such as lounges, games rooms, gyms, and outdoor spaces, fostering a conducive environment for balanced living. Diverse events further enrich the student experience, promoting a vibrant community and enhancing overall satisfaction

Study Inn: Lemyngton Street, Study Inn's sports-themed accommodation, won the 2023 StudentCrowd Voice Award for best student accommodation in Loughborough. With 4.7 stars on Google, 4.6 stars on Student Crowd, and an NPS of +34 in the GSL Index (143% higher than benchmark) , it excels as a private hall of residence.

Proptech Solution of the Year

Amber Internet Solutions: Founded in 2016, amber is a leading global student housing solution provider, working with PBSAs, HMOs, and universities. Boasting 1M+ verified student housing listings in 250+ cities across 25 countries and 6 regions, amber specializes in the international student market, serving a network of 80 million students from 160+ countries.

Kinetic Software: Kinetic provides an ever-evolving student accommodation, wellbeing and event management solution that connects you, your team, and your customers. For 25 years, we’ve been a trusted partner in the sector, with over 80% of the UK’s universities and some of the largest PBSA providers placing their trust in our technology.

Lavanda: Lavanda OpenPMS was launched in Q1 2024 with the goal of becoming the definitive ‘next-generation’ enterprise property management technology platform for the student accommodation sector. OpenPMS enables owners and operators of student accommodation to reimagine their customer experience, optimise asset performance and scale portfolios with previously impossible rental strategies.

Vingcard ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions: Livvi is a proprietary mobile app from Vingcard offering property managers an off-the-shelf solution to maximize security and convenience. The platform’s roadmap for enhancements and integrations has taken into account the needs of today’s modern student accommodations while deepening the connection between fundamental security needs and day-to-day property operations.

Spaceflow: Spaceflow empowers occupiers and visitors to interact with buildings digitally in one app. As a tenant experience solution, it enables landlords of commercial and residential buildings to attract and retain tenants, create a frictionless experience, drive operational excellence, and understand occupier needs.

StarRez; StarRez, a global leader in housing accommodation software, recently introduced StarRez Channels to enable residential management and conference and events teams to synchronise rates and availability between their StarRez inventory and several acquisition channels operating. StarRez Channels represent a groundbreaking addition to managing Online Travel Agencies (OTA).

Student Cribs: Our bespoke in-house technology leads our operations, driving 100% occupancy in 23/24 and exceptional tenant satisfaction, saving 300 hours in administration time and significant cost reductions. The launch of the inspection app in 2023 has enhanced efficiency, safety and the tenant experience by integrating key data with our maintenance platform.

Parcel SafePlace: Parcel SafePlace has revolutionised parcel logistics in Purpose-Built Student Accommodation with advanced technology, ensuring secure deliveries, enhancing resident experience, and boosting operational efficiency. Their engineered solutions and data-led approach future-proof buildings to respond to modern lives, significantly saving staff time and costs for many PBSA operators.

UPP: Home@Halls is UPP’s innovative, market-leading FM operational platform and resident lifestyle App used by accommodation teams across the UK and 29,000 residents. The platform is feature rich for both operational teams and residents. It has improved residents’ experience while digitising and automating key operational processes, integrating seamlessly with other platforms.

Utopi: Data, Action, Impact - Utopi simplify the complexities of data acquisition, temperature control and ESG reporting to decarbonise the PBSA sector for the benefit of people, planet, and profit. From a 9x ROI to 15% energy savings, we're driving energy reductions, carbon reductions and influencing asset value increases.

Rising Star Award

Romy Levin, Nido Living: Romy’s unique blend of analytical skills and marketing insight translates into innovative strategies and campaigns that have purpose and deliver success. In a year of change and growth for Nido, Romy has been a driving force, stepping up to manage new launches, ESG initiatives, an expanding team, and stellar results.

Cara Fearnley, Empiric Student Property: Cara Fearnley, Head of Site Operations at Hello Student (ESP’s operating brand), has had a meteoric rise since joining the business. After driving outstanding performance in regional operations roles, she now leads operations across ESP’s entire portfolio, continuing to mark herself out as a future leader in the PBSA sector.

Emily Sim, Yugo: Emily Sim exemplifies a rising star through her proactive leadership, innovative revenue strategies, and dedication to diversity. Emily goes above and beyond in her role as Revenue Performance Manager, transforming and inspiring by delivering remarkable commercial results for the business, whilst making Yugo a more equitable and inclusive workplace.

Olivia Horncastle, Novel Student: Olivia Horncastle’s positive attitude, dedication, and corporate mindset set her apart. She consistently goes above and beyond her role, demonstrating exceptional commitment and leadership. Her ability to cultivate key relationships and drive success through innovative strategies makes her a true rising star in the PBSA sector.

Phoebe Jowett, Student Castle Property Management Services: Phoebe Jowett is a standout candidate for the Rising Star Award, showcasing innovation and a deep commitment to environmental sustainability at Student Castle. She progressed from administrator to overseeing branding, leading initiatives that significantly reduced paper waste and minimized single-use plastics in student events through strategic digital and eco-friendly approaches.

Nathan Van Paesschen, Student Homes Management: Nathan’s innovative thinking, entrepreneurial achievements and transformative leadership showcase his exceptional contributions to the student accommodation sector. His leadership and dedication to providing affordable, inclusive, and sustainable co-living homes to students across the country truly set a new market standard for student accommodation.

Xiaoqin Niu, TONG Global: Xiaoqin Niu, TONG’s China Sales Manager, constantly innovates for UK PBSA and BTR operators, delivering an average 25% conversion rate on sales enquiries. Her leadership, technological adeptness, and cultural insights make her a standout candidate for the Rising Star Award, as she drives significant growth and enhances the student experience.

Social Impact Initiative - Student Property

Yugo: Yugo is more than student accommodation; it's a community where students thrive academically, socially, and personally. Our Yugo Movement fosters sustainability, local volunteering, and charity projects. With over 2,600 global events, we promote networking, confidence, and belonging. Yugo drives social impact by setting the standard for inclusive, sustainable student living.

iQ Student Accommodation: At iQ, we recognise that every student deserves their best year yet, no matter their background. As a student accommodation provider, we understand students’ lives and challenges. In 2024, our ESG approach, iQ Thrive, has grown stronger and stronger, as has an innovative partnership with social mobility charity, upReach.

McComb Students: McComb Students excels in fostering social inclusivity with initiatives like the African Cup of Nations support for Nigerian students. Our commitment to cultural celebrations, mental health support, and accessible living environments creates a welcoming, diverse community where all students thrive.

Southern Housing: Southern Housing's partnership with The Talent Tap donated £17,600 in-kind, providing 32 rooms for a transformative social mobility programme. This initiative supports underprivileged students with free accommodation and career opportunities in London, fostering diversity and social change in the student property sector, and setting a new standard for community engagement.

TONG Global: TONG Global and iQ Student Accommodation pioneered a new model of student community-building. We launched the Chinese Students Social Club, designed to create a supportive and engaging community for Chinese students in the UK. With 5,000+ members and 2,000+ event attendees in 2023-24, it's a resounding success.

Supplier of the Year

Amber: Amber is a B Corp certified, Net Zero energy management consultancy based in Cardiff. Our mission is simple – to fix utilities, save the planet and make people happy. 

EGGER: EGGER are a leading, global manufacturer of luxurious yet affordable, environmentally conscious, lasting material solutions for Student Accommodation construction and interiors. Market leading in service, quality and technology, EGGER are the standard for an impressive portfolio of the UK's leading PBSA developers, operators, and associated designers.

Global Student: Global Student are changing the way PBSA providers manage their buildings, for the better. By integrating their range of student living supplies with a full Facilities Management service, they’ve streamlined operations and created a simple solution for all their student needs, whilst championing quality, value, and community support.

Housing Hand: Housing Hand is the innovative market leading and trusted Rent Guarantor Service with a proud 100% payout record for all valid claims (even during covid). The services cover all full-time (UK and International) students including care experienced and estranged students, who have, for various reasons, been unable to provide a qualifying UK or Irish guarantor of their own. They are the preferred and go to provider to many Universities, PBSA's, Letting Agents, BtR & Co-Living, as well as large landlords and booking agents to help de-risk their portfolio. The growing range of services include standard monthly payment options and are adaptable and ready to support the up-and-coming Renters Rights changes for all types of rental accommodation.

Just Clear: Just Clear's PBSA team revolutionises student accommodation clearance with sustainable solutions, real-time carbon tracking, and significant cost savings. Our commitment to innovation, transparency, and environmental responsibility sets us apart as leaders in the sector, driving transformative change and positive impact.

Prefect Controls: Prefect Controls have been designing and manufacturing energy saving and monitoring equipment specifically for student accommodation since 1997. Upwards of 250,000 heat sources are controlled by Prefect products. More than 70,000 of these remotely on our secure Irus internet Portal. Our cleverly simple concept? – Cutting unnecessary use of energy.

QX Global Group: QX Global Group has been transforming finance functions in UK PBSA for 15 years through automation and addressing talent shortages, reducing costs for clients. Today QX is proud to partner with five of the top 10 PBSA providers supporting over 140,000 beds.

Spaceflow: Spaceflow empowers occupiers and visitors to interact with buildings digitally in one app. As a tenant experience solution, it enables landlords of commercial and residential buildings to attract and retain tenants, create a frictionless experience, drive operational excellence, and understand occupier needs.

StearnElectric Co: Spaceflow empowers occupiers and visitors to interact with buildings digitally in one app. As a tenant experience solution, it enables landlords of commercial and residential buildings to attract and retain tenants, create a frictionless experience, drive operational excellence, and understand occupier needs.

Parcel SafePlace: Parcel SafePlace has revolutionised parcel logistics in Purpose-Built Student Accommodation with advanced technology, ensuring secure deliveries, enhancing resident experience, and boosting operational efficiency. Their engineered solutions and data-led approach future-proof buildings to respond to modern lives, significantly saving staff time and costs for many PBSA operators.

University Team of the Year

King's College London: The whole King’s Residences team puts their students at the heart of everything they do. Together, they support their students through every step of their journey, creating a culture of collaboration rich in feedback and a desire to understand what the residents need. They provide a home from home.

University of Warwick: The Student Information Centre is an integral part of the University, serving as the primary reception at Warwick. Acting as a cornerstone for service provision, the SIC team significantly enhances the student experience while fostering collaboration among various departments ensuring seamless service for 28,500 students and over 7,700 staff members.

University Halls of Residence Award

University of Birmingham: Part of a £200 million redevelopment, Pritchatts Park Townhouses provide modern, eco-friendly student accommodation. With solar panels, accessible rooms, and inclusive communal facilities, these homes enhance student life by reducing utility costs, fostering community, and promoting sustainable living. This project exemplifies the University's dedication to student wellbeing and environmental responsibility. 

University of Essex: The Pastures provides modern functional design, with a strong emphasis on community building to maximise social interaction and enable strong friendships to be formed. Smart design of buildings has maximised effective use of space, whilst ensuring efficiency to provide best value.

Unsung Hero Award

Vanya Campbell, University of Essex: Vanya Campbell embodies the qualities of an outstanding Engagement Manager. Her remarkable service, compassionate leadership, and unwavering commitment to student welfare make her a deserving candidate for this award. The University of Essex is fortunate to have such a dedicated and impactful individual shaping the lives of its students.

Juliana Petrikova, Nido Living: Juliana Petrikova goes above and beyond to ensure operational excellence at every touchpoint in the Nido portfolio. An inspiring leader, Juliana creates superlative on-the-ground teams who deliver the Nido brand standard tailored to local cultures underpinned by robust processes. With an ambitious strategy, Juliana is key to Nido’s ongoing success.

Kate Brandwood, Yugo: Kate Brandwood’s tireless dedication and transformative leadership as Area Manager have made her an integral and indispensable member of the Yugo community. Students and colleagues all agree, Kate deserves recognition as an Unsung Hero for her proactivity, attention to detail, and unwavering compassion.

Emma Hunt, McComb Students: Emma Hunt and Abbie Stallard are nominated for the Unsung Hero Award for their extraordinary dedication to managing mental health crises at Orlando Village. Their compassionate and proactive approach has created a safer, supportive environment, saving lives and fostering community among students.

Tyrell Farrel, Southern Housing: Always willing to make our students feel welcome, seen and heard. Tyrell Farrell promotes wellbeing and positivity, and lives the values of Optivo Students. He goes above an beyond to ensure all our residents are included and engaged with what's happening at Platt Hall and Writtle House.

Lewis Wilkes, Student Castle Property Management Services: Lewis Wilkes, an outstanding maintenance technician, is celebrated for his unwavering dedication, exceptional work ethic, and proactive problem-solving. His genuine care for residents and extraordinary efforts have significantly enhanced student accommodation, making him a beloved figure and an invaluable asset to our team.

Young Student Accommodation Personality of the Year

Saurabh Goel, Amber Internet Solutions: Saurabh Goel, CEO and Co-Founder of amber, directs a vast network of over 1 million rooms spanning 250+ cities globally. His leadership has significantly advanced the student accommodation sector by integrating robust safety measures, fostering inclusivity, and deploying innovative technology-driven solutions.

Naomi van Keulen, City Room Rentals: Naomi's journey with City Room Rentals has illustrated a trajectory of professional growth marked by dedication, skill, and an unwavering commitment to excellence - from her initial role as a Customer Support Advisor to her current position as Partnerships Manager.

Jamie Harris, Harris Associates: Jamie Harris, is Head of Student Accommodation at Harris Associates and Co-Founder of Harris Studios. Jamie has made exceptional contributions to the student accommodation sector, showcasing his leadership, innovation, and commitment to enhancing student living experiences.

Laura Wills, Novel Student Brodie Berman, Fusion Group: Laura Wills is celebrated for her exceptional leadership, innovation and dedication at Novel Student. She has driven leasing success by showing a keen understanding of the Cork student market, fostering key partnerships and leading proactive strategies, all while supporting other teams and tackling the challenges of mobilising a new build.

Mitchell Jones, Student Castle Property Management Services: Mitchell Jones showcases exceptional leadership and innovation. With his operational, sales and marketing background, he constantly strives to enhance the student experience and promote lifelong-learning through various initiatives such as like CV writing and workshops.

Ashleigh Dunlop, Student Castle Property Management Services: Ashleigh’s rise from Student Castle York’s receptionist to National Resilife Manager for Student Castle and Capitol Students exemplifies her commitment and holistic approach. Her focus on student feedback, innovative initiatives, and inclusive programs has significantly enhanced student experiences, fostering diversity and sustainability across the portfolio.

James Wragg, Student Cribs: In my 9 years at Student Cribs, I’ve progressed from graduate to Chief Commercial Officer through streamlining the management of student houses with custom-built software, which has facilitated Student Cribs to achieve 10x growth in properties and solidified our position as the UK's largest 2nd and 3rd year housing provider.

Ashleigh Dowman, Now Student Living: Ashleigh Dowman, Digital Marketing Manager at Now Student Living, excels in engaging students and enhancing their experience through the Live Now wellbeing and engagement programme, promoting sustainability, inclusivity, and mental health. Her innovative events and leadership have significantly improved student life, making Now Student Living a breakthrough leading PBSA operator.

Casey Orrin, University of Warwick: Casey Orrin exemplifies enthusiastic energy for brilliant customer experience. His innovative approach, dedication to continuous improvement, and effective communication strategies have significantly enhanced our student experience. Casey's exceptional contributions and dedication make him a deserving candidate for recognition in the sector.