Student Accommodation Awards 2024: top class

The cream of the sector came together for Property Week‘s Student Accommodation Awards, which were held at the iconic Wembley Stadium on 4 December.

Hundreds of guests were entertained by beatboxing band Duke and comedy star and former Great British Bake Off host Matt Lucas as master of ceremonies, who led the proceedings with aplomb.

Property Week deputy editor Mel Flaherty introduced the event, noting that the momentum behind the student accommodation sector was a cause for celebration.

“If you were a student some years ago, your experience of student accommodation was likely very different to what you are all involved in providing today and what we are here to celebrate tonight,” she said. “And given that the market’s potential for growth shows no signs of slowing in the near future, there should be plenty to celebrate in the coming years too.”

Flaherty noted that enquiries from US students about studying abroad increased fivefold the day after Donald Trump’s victory in the most recent US election was confirmed, with the UK cited as the top destination.

She also flagged up the university tuition fee increase recently implemented by prime minister Sir Keir Starmer, noting: “The confirmed rise of just over £300 for the next academic year is not as bad as many had feared and is unlikely to put off any of the still-growing number of the UK’s 18-pluses who want to go to uni, in spite of the horror stories of debt and the cost of living.

Mel Flaherty: Property Week’s deputy editor introduced the event

“In fact, the fee rise may have a positive impact on the finances of some of the more financially challenged academic institutions, which again can only be a good thing for student accommodation.”

Whatever outside forces are doing, the student accommodation space continues to be dynamic and is continually innovating. Flaherty added: “It is little wonder there is so much innovation in the sector, with new products targeting second- and even third-year students, and operators diversifying into accommodation with different levels of amenity, from no-frills basic but good-quality halls of residence to blocks more akin to luxury co-living buildings.

“All of them are playing their part in introducing the idea of the benefits of rental living – particularly in build to rent – to the next generation, which can only be a good thing for the wider property industry, too.”

Flaherty went on to thank the rigorous judging panel and the event partners and sponsors before introducing Marina Novis, head of real estate programme at charity partner Sponsors for Educational Opportunity (SEO London). The UK-registered diversity and inclusion charity is dedicated to offering educational, training and mentoring support to young people from low socioeconomic and ethnic minority backgrounds.

Finally, the guests and winners partied into the night with a silent disco.

Congratulations to all the nominees and everyone who took home a trophy on the night.

Meet the winners:

Health and Wellbeing Initiative – Student Property

Sponsored by Student Crowd

Study Inn

Study Inn (SI) is a luxury student accommodation owner, developer and operator. Founded in 2009, SI offers all-inclusive city-centre student housing with hotel-like services including concierge, 24/7 management, room cleaning and linen services at no additional cost.

The company runs a commendable series of events for its students including: speed-friending events; craft sessions; brainteaser exercises; summer parties; quiz nights; Pride celebrations; and cultural celebrations.

Judges were impressed by innovative initiatives provided by SI that see students offered free massage therapy, access to a personal trainer and instant messaging with property managers, a newsfeed to communicate with other residents, instantaneous maintenance tickets linked directly to the onsite maintenance team and information on upcoming events via its app.

It was clear to the panel that SI places real emphasis on wellbeing and that facilities such as yoga studios, gyms, outdoor space, entertainment areas and cinemas across sites contribute to wellbeing and foster interaction.

Shortlist: Derwent Facilities Management | Harrison Street (The Aspen) | Joint Living | Nido Living | Yugo


Climate Crisis Initiative – Student Property

Sponsored by StarRez

Derwent Facilities Management

The approach of Derwent Facilities Management to the climate crisis encompasses initiatives that focus on energy efficiency, waste reduction, biodiversity enhancement and community engagement.

The organisation has obtained ISO 14001 and ISO 50001 certifications, which the panel agreed demonstrates its commitment to environmental and energy management standards. The judges were also impressed with the range of initiatives the firm has implemented across its properties. These include the use of renewable energy sources such as solar panels; water-saving cleaning methods; eco-friendly cleaning products; comprehensive recycling programmes; and students being encouraged to compost their waste.

The firm also focuses on wildlife. It has installed bug hotels and accommodation for hedgehogs, supports tree planting, provides herb gardens and runs sustainability education programmes for its students.

The judges noted: “Installations to support wildlife, planting trees and the herb gardens are a great way to encourage respect and compassion for nature and wildlife.”

Shortlist: Yugo, GSA, McAleer & Rushe


Social Impact Initiative – Student Property

Sponsored by Aldermore

iQ Student Accommodation

In 2024, iQ developed an environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategy called iQ Thrive focusing on Think Green (its sustainability strategy), Feel Good (its wellbeing initiative) and Give Back (its community commitment).

Give Back features the iQ Thrive Academy, a partnership with social mobility charity upReach, focused on delivering enhanced employability outcomes for students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. This initiative now supports 80 students from across the UK through a three-year employability programme.

IQ supports the scheme through a range of employee fundraising projects and offers students accommodation bursaries. It also provides structured mentorship programmes to support members of the team.

Additionally, events that offer networking, training and mentor connection opportunities are developed to aid student growth.

The judges were impressed with how well connected iQ was with the upReach charity and praised the level of engagement from all levels of the company.

Highly commended: TONG Global

Shortlist: McComb Students | Southern Housing | Yugo


Unsung Hero

Sponsored by Fresh

Lewis Wilkes, Student Castle Property Management Services

Lewis Wilkes is a maintenance technician, and the testimonials about him highlight his remarkable character. Students frequently commend his approachable and friendly demeanour. One student, for example, expressed immense gratitude for the “lovely man” who patiently explained the cause and solution of a maintenance issue, equipping them with practical knowledge for the future.

Colleagues also hold Wilkes in high regard. The admin team praised his readiness to assist with any problem, regardless of its size, and a fellow technician noted: “Lewis sets the standard for all of us. His willingness to take on any challenge, meticulous planning and diligence inspire us all to do better.”

The judging panel noted: “Lewis’s commitment to support not only students but colleagues across neighbouring properties is clear to see and is underlined by great, glowing testimonials. His proactiveness and genuine care for the student experience are standout.”

Shortlist: Kate Brandwood, Yugo | Vanya Campbell, University of Essex | Tyrell Farrell, Southern Housing | Emma Hunt, McComb Students | Juliana Petrikova, Nido Living


Inclusion in Student Accommodation

Sponsored by Blacklight Capital Partners

Homes for Students

Homes for Students was recognised for going the extra mile to create an inclusive environment for its students. The firm, which provides homes for 45,000-plus students across more than 180 properties, was commended by the judging panel for its methods to ensure students have equal access to high-quality living environments.

The firm’s passion for inclusion is reflected in the make-up of its staff and it runs a Together is Better programme to cultivate a culture of inclusion. The programme includes three subgroups focusing on race/religion, mental health and gender/sexuality. As part of the scheme, regular events take
place and articles, videos, podcasts, quizzes and reading materials are created.

The judges noted: “It is clear that Homes for Students has a wide-ranging commitment to inclusivity with a number of different successful initiatives. At the heart, it would appear, is staff training and education as well as a visible presence at events to show support.”

Highly commended: UPP

Shortlist: London School of Economics and Political Science | McComb Students | Yugo


Supplier

Sponsored by Walsh

Parcel SafePlace

Judges were convinced that the service Parcel SafePlace provides reflects the way students shop and addresses a real need for community.

The proptech firm installs tech-enabled parcel rooms in PBSA buildings nationwide. The judges were impressed by its reach and how it has helped thousands of students receive their packages safely and quickly nationwide.

Parcel SafePlace can monitor and respond to data, identifying trends; decrease staff handling time; and provide secure convenient deliveries for residents that evolve with real-time requirements.

The judges particularly liked the enhanced security measures, including surveillance cameras and secure access controls, which ensure the protection of students’ packages, safeguard valuable deliveries and reduce liability risks for accommodation providers.

They also acknowledged that Parcel SafePlace builds a secure environment that improves the overall student experience and operational effectiveness.

The judges described Parcel SafePlace as “a supplier that’s clearly well loved by clients and has great testimonials”.

Shortlist: Amber | EGGER | Global Student | Housing Hand | Just Clear | Prefect Controls | QX Global Group | Spaceflow | Stearn Electric Co


Proptech Solution

Sponsored by Howard Kennedy

Lavanda

In Q1 2024, Lavanda launched OpenPMS for Student Accommodation with the goal of becoming the definitive ‘next-generation’ enterprise property management system
(PMS) for the sector.

OpenPMS combines application programming interfaces to create a unified architecture that encompasses microservices, is cloud-native and gives clients design freedom in creating front-end user services.

The platform is flexible, scalable and can integrate with any third-party solution. It comes with a fully customisable resident app as standard. It is also able to automate workflows and management tasks. Additionally, it leverages new technologies such as AI to unlock scale and enhance student experience. It also enables operators to track student wellbeing and provide support when required.

Testimonials praised the user interface for OpenPMS as “slick and modern” and it was clear to the judging panel that the technology helps drive operational efficiencies for student accommodation providers.

Shortlist: Amber Internet Solutions | Kinetic Software | Parcel SafePlace | Spaceflow | StarRez | Student Cribs | UPP | Utopi | Vingcard ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions


Rising Star

Sponsored by UCAS

Cara Fearnley, Empiric Student Property

Cara Fearnley is head of site operations at Hello Student, a trading brand of Empiric, and is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of all 70 of the company’s student accommodation schemes across the UK.

Her impact on the business is undeniable and, across her various promotions, she has helped it achieve significant cost savings and improved operational processes.

Described as a natural leader, Fearnley has pushed the business to higher Net Promoter Scores (NPSs) and helped enhance its retention rates.

The judges said: “It is clear that Cara has had a deserved meteoric rise at Hello Student and has had considerable impact in all the positions she has held.

“There is evidence of business improvement as a result of her efforts, whether it be through NPSs, customer retention, increased occupancy or financial savings through the introduction of the new processes that she has led.”

Shortlist: Olivia Horncastle, Novel Student | Phoebe Jowett, Student Castle Property Management Services | Romy Levin, Nido Living | Xiaoqin Niu, TONG Global | Emily Sim, Yugo | Thalia Tuan, Student Castle Property | Nathan Van Paesschen, Student Homes Management


Interior Design

Sponsored by Alumno Group

Wick Park, Novel Student

Located near the Olympic Park, Wick Park is described as the first PBSA scheme in Hackney Wick. The scheme has been designed from scratch with creative students in mind.

Testimonials attest to the “remarkable design of this property”, and key architectural motifs, details and geometries from the external façade have been repeated and woven through the interior.

The design includes decorative finishes such as ceramic tiles and geometric patterns in the meeting room carpets and bespoke rugs. Bespoke joinery with curves, dynamic geometries and vibrant pink metal screens are standout interior features.

The interior design also includes various zones: study spaces; meeting rooms; an amphitheatre; social lounges; karaoke rooms; and an onsite gym.

The judges were pleased to award Novel Student the trophy and commented: “Wick Park shows a design that demonstrates a focus on student wellbeing across the building from aesthetics to functionality.”

Shortlist: A Designer at Heart | Collegiate AC Group | Empiric Student Property | Jasper Sanders + Partners | Manalo & White Architects | Marlix Student Living | Nido Living | Student Homes Management | Whittam Cox Architects


Innovation

Sponsored by TSL

Accommodation Essex

Accommodation Essex was spurred on by a UCAS report that found students were craving community. It surveyed its student body to learn more about their specific needs and, as a result, introduced three distinct community groups – Athlete Village, Start-up Square and the Volunteering Square – and evolved its current LGBTQ+ offering.

Each group provides students with connections to like-minded peers and a tailored support package. For example, in the Athlete Village, it has put in place a support package including dedicated coaching support, personalised training plans and a welcome package valued at more than £700.

The business has also introduced LGBTQ+ accommodation that provides a safe and comfortable living environment specifically for individuals who identify as LGBTQ+.

The judges were impressed with Accommodation Essex’s research-led approach and agreed that impressive results and high student satisfaction meant it should take the prize for innovation in 2024.

Highly commended: University of Southampton

Shortlist: Homes for Students | Kinetic Software | Utopi | Yugo


Collaboration

Sponsored by JLL

King’s College London and urbanest Student Accommodation

King’s College London (KCL) and urbanest Student Accommodation partnered to create a postgraduate living programme. GradPlus sees KCL postgraduate students live at urbanest properties and offers a range of exclusive benefits including free access to KCL BeActive sports activities; unique café offers; free gym memberships; in-property events (featuring social and external speakers); a resident wellness programme; free bike hire; and exclusive postgraduate study spaces.

The panel was pleased by the uptick in demand for GradPlus accommodation since the partnership was launched in 2016 and praised its sustainable expansion across various urbanest locations.

The project supports diversity and inclusion with specialist grants and also has ambitions to scale its response to the climate emergency, seeking Passivhaus certification for its Battersea property.

The panel praised the innovation on show and identified a direct impact on KCL students. With great testimonials from students and impressive growth, the judges were pleased to award the “genuine partnership” the trophy.

Shortlist: City Room Rentals | Equans | McComb Students | MORPH | UCAS


University Halls of Residence

Sponsored by micampus residencias

University of Birmingham

The Pritchatts Park Townhouses development at the University of Birmingham is a £200m redevelopment in partnership with Equans and Equitix and provides a contemporary, community living experience for 81 students.

The judges praised the development’s focus on low-carbon design and sustainable modern living. The houses are equipped with motion-sensor lighting and triple glazing for optimal heat insulation, significantly reducing the need for traditional heating systems.

The building also includes 13 accessible bedrooms to ensure the university can cater to a diverse population.

The panel agreed that the halls offer an exceptional student experience and commented: “There is a focus on accessible accommodation so that all students feel supported and can fully participate in campus life, with a community Net Promoter Score that has improved since its development. The ResLife scheme offers a diverse calendar of events and the student mentor team hosts a wellbeing café to support students.”

Shortlist: University of Essex


University Team

Sponsored by UPP

King’s College London – King’s Residences

King’s Residences is described by its nominator as a “department that achieves success by creating a culture of collaboration that is rich in feedback and places the students at the heart of what they do”.

The team seeks to create a home-from-home community that supports wellbeing and enables personal development outside student academic journeys.

A recent audit showed that the team complies with all mandatory and non-mandatory aspects of the Universities UK code of practice. It runs an Anxiety to Excitement campaign, offering would-be students multiple engagement points – including a series of open days/webinars – to ease the decision-making process for applicants and provide a realistic portrayal of life at King’s.

It has also introduced a Breakfast Club to address the cost-of-living crisis, offers specialist neurodivergence training and has managed to divert 100% of abandoned student belongings away from landfill.

The judges commented: “Great customer feedback and fantastic evaluation relative to code of practice.”

Shortlist: University of Warwick


Deal of the Year

Sponsored by Mills & Reeve

Staffordshire Campus Living

Staffordshire University Student Village achieved financial closing on 4 July with partners Staffordshire Campus Living, a consortium formed by HOCHTIEF PPP Solutions UK and Ireland, Plenary, Staffordshire University, Willmott Dixon and Pinnacle.

With construction due for completion in 2026, the student village will blend contemporary and sustainable architecture with its location near the uni’s nature reserve and the River Trent.

The design, build, finance and operate (DBFO) deal will see 700 ensuite student rooms built in cluster blocks and townhouses alongside a village ‘hub’ facility. Alongside this, Clarice Cliff Court accommodation will be refurbished to match the standards of the new development.

The panel was particularly happy to see this deal succeed given the current economic environment and praised the consortium for pushing through with the development.

The judges noted: “A really impressive submission. DBFO deals are complex and take a huge amount of time, effort and investment to complete.”

Shortlist: Abodus Student Living | Assetz Capital | Cain International | CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang | Maslow Capital | Nido Living | Student Homes Management | Torsion Group | Zenzic Capital


Investor of the Year

Sponsored by Irwin Mitchell

Student Homes Management

In less than four years, Student Homes Management has rapidly emerged as one of the largest student accommodation investors in the UK. Its fast-growing student HMO portfolio boasts properties in locations including Bath, Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Durham, Lancaster, Leeds, Lincoln, Liverpool, Loughborough, Manchester, Newcastle and Nottingham.

The firm achieves enviable occupancy rates and displays an impressive rental yield with a commitment, and funding, for further developments in place.

In addition to its financial success, the panel could see that the company invests with ESG in mind. It is determined to improve its buildings’ energy ratings and is investing in innovative technologies such as heat pumps.

Student Homes also supports disadvantaged students, allocating a number of rooms for those who are underprivileged.

The judges praised the firm for bringing institutional money to the HMO market at scale and providing affordable accommodation to students, and described its sustainability and student support initiatives as “great”.

Shortlist: Beaufort Capital | Cain International | Harrison Street | Investec | Tri7 | Zenzic Capital


Young Student Accommodation Personality

Sponsored by Kinetic Software

James Wragg, Student Cribs

James Wragg has quickly risen through the ranks of the student accommodation sector over the past nine years. He started out as a graduate digital marketing manager and was appointed chief commercial officer last year.

He taught himself how to build and implement proprietary in-house software to facilitate a growing portfolio and surging demand and displays a powerful commitment to service, ensuring an impressive Trustpilot score for Student Cribs. Additionally, Wragg helps drive Student Cribs’ commitment to ESG, ensuring it meets the needs of disabled students and caters to those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

The judges commented: “James has clearly demonstrated powerful ambition and a strong sense of what the business and the wider sector truly need to innovate and continually meet the needs of students.”

Highly commended: Brodie Berman, Fusion Group

Shortlist: Ashleigh Dowman, Now Student Living | Ashleigh Dunlop, Student Castle Property Management Services | Saurabh Goel, Amber Internet Solutions | Jamie Harris, Harris Associates | Mitchell Jones, Student Castle Property Management Services | Naomi van Keulen, City Room Rentals | Casey Orrin, University of Warwick | Laura Wills, Novel Student


Agency Team

Sponsored by Abodus

Harris Associates

Screenshot

Harris Associates describes itself as a PBSA boutique investment agency and it had a bumper year posting revenue growth, a rise in new instructions and impressive fee income.

High-profile deals included the multi-million-pound sale of Ten Traffic Street in Nottingham and a significant transaction with Cain International/Fusion across Nottingham and Manchester. The business also launched Harris Studios, which offers enhanced in-house marketing services to clients.

The panel was impressed by the firm’s innovative approach, which saw it move into international territory and generate positive results. Alongside this, the panel agreed that Harris Associates supports diversity and inclusion, supporting The Hope Foundation and championing local causes.

The judges said: “The development of Harris Studios is a standout achievement, revolutionising real estate marketing with cutting-edge digital content and social media strategies. Their ability to secure high-profile deals and navigate complex negotiations demonstrates their effectiveness and market leadership.”

Shortlist: Amber Internet Solutions | City Room Rentals | JLL | Knight Frank | Student First Group | The Property Marketing Strategists | UCAS


Legal/Professional Team – Student Property

Sponsored by YourTRIBE

CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang

CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang recognises student accommodation as a thriving and specialised asset class. The firm embeds itself across all aspects of student accommodation and the panel noted its involvement across issues such as regulation, building safety and legislation.

The company is an active member of the British Property Federation’s Student Accommodation Committee and provides input to the Scottish Property Federation’s response documents to the Scottish government on the financial implications of the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Bill and its fitness for purpose in PBSA.

On top of this, the firm completed a series of multi-million-pound deals, deftly navigating the complex legal and statutory issues associated with the Building Safety Act.

The panel praised its industry-wide view, highlighted its “responsible” approach to PBSA discourse and particularly flagged the team’s impressive proposition, dedicated team and understanding of the Building Safety Act.

Shortlist: CBRE | Eversheds Sutherland | Mills & Reeve | Pearce Planning | Pinsent Masons


Affordable/HMO Accommodation

Sponsored by Torsion Group

King’s College London

King’s College London led the way in a strong field with its King’s Affordable Accommodation Scheme (KAAS), according to the panel.

KAAS was established by King’s Residences with the aim of providing accessible and affordable housing options for members of the King’s community.

Measures include exemptions for mandatory pre-payments and prioritisation of accessibility features and amenities. Students below a certain income threshold, those who have been in care and those who have been displaced are all eligible for the scheme.

The university backs the initiative with a multi-million-pound rent subsidy to ensure students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds can access affordable, quality accommodation.

The judges praised the scheme, noting: “It is highly inclusive, automatically supporting care-experienced and estranged students and addressing the needs of those with disabilities. The positive impact on student satisfaction and contributions to the local community is well acknowledged.”

Shortlist: Derwent Facilities Management | FAT Properties | Fletcher Joseph Associates – The Mont | Kexgill Group/University Quarter | Student Depot | University of Warwick


Private Halls of Residence

Sponsored by Assured Energy

Goodenough College

The best private halls of residence are aligned with the demands of Gen Z, focusing on digital and networked aspects, learning and social cohesion, with the student experience and their wellbeing prioritised throughout. The panel felt Goodenough College encapsulates all these attributes.

The operator offers single, couple and family accommodation for students and supplies an attractive benefits package that includes subsidised and free clubs and societies, events and dinners, an extensive programme of special events and activities and subsidised meals.

Residents have awarded the accommodation high satisfaction ratings, with many stating it has a positive impact on their wellbeing. There is an independent Members’ Council and, with the aid of staff, their community and welfare co-chairs offer mental health awareness, stress-relieving activities and individual support.

The panel praised the college’s impressive support network and stated that it truly provides an “enhanced student study experience”.

Shortlist: Abodus Student Living | Collegiate AC Group | Fletcher Joseph Associates – Nelson Place | Fresh | Pickard Properties | Student Castle Cambridge | Study Inn | Yugo, GSA, McAleer & Rushe


International Operator

Sponsored by Yardi

Nido Living

Nido already manages a large portfolio across the world. According to its submission, it currently has 7,000 beds across 20 assets, in 11 cities and six countries. A further 2,000 beds are set to open in 2024-25.

The business says it operates with a ‘student-first’ strategy and its success here is reflected in feedback scores from its residents, which rise significantly year on year. Similar trends are reported for its Net Promoter Scores.

Wellbeing is also a key focus for Nido, and the company partners with a psychologist to support its students in the most effective way possible.

The company’s focus on sustainability – new developments use only recycled, reclaimed, biodegradable and natural materials – was also commended.

As a previous winner, Nido’s approach to ESG and its laser focus on the student experience were praised by the panel.

They added: “Year on year they are striving to do better for the sector, which is why they deserve to win again.”

Shortlist: Collegiate AC Group | Londonist DMC | micampus residencias | Novel Student | Yugo


Operator of the Year (UK only)

Sponsored by Global Student

Unite Students

A set of strong submissions in this category gave the judges much food for thought.

The panel was impressed with the level of consideration Unite Students is giving to the cost-of-living crisis and praised its fixed-price, all-inclusive rental offer, approach to sustainability and focus on supply issues.

Unite places huge emphasis on student wellbeing, offering round-the-clock support; free independent living and financial education tools; and formal support packages for anyone who may be struggling through its student support framework, Support to Stay. It has also invested in mental health nurses.

The panel of judges said: “Unite offers some excellent and innovative programmes and initiatives taking place and which can be considered to be sector-leading.

“It is clear that Unite Students is not afraid to tackle the more difficult subjects that are important to students, which show that it is going above and beyond to support residents.”

Shortlist: Abodus Student Living | Fresh | Homes for Students | iQ Student Accommodation | Now Student Living | Student Cribs | Student Roost | Study Inn | UPP | Yugo


Developer of the Year – Student Property

Sponsored by Investec Bank

Torsion

Torsion developed an enviable number of student units during the year and has delivered more than 3,000 PBSA units since its inception in 2016. It also has a strong pipeline in place for further PBSA creation.

Judges praised the firm’s “innovative approach” and collaborative style and were impressed by the level of growth it has displayed. It prioritises relationships with key stakeholders, such as key supply teams, subcontractors, local communities, planners
and clients.

The firm also focuses on sustainability, aiming for a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ and FITWEL 3* rating across its developments. Moreover, student engagement is commendable, with residents offered the opportunity to engage through roles as resident co-ordinators, working alongside the property staff.

The panel highlighted: “There are few companies, especially new starters, who fulfil the full range of site acquisition, full development and onward operations.”

Shortlist: Alumno Group | Blacklight Capital Partners


Hall of Fame

Sponsored by Beaufort Capital

Paddy Jackman, Jackman Education Solutions/Campus Living Villages

Our Hall of Fame winner, Paddy Jackman, has been established as a cornerstone in the student accommodation space for years.

He has held a variety of roles in the PBSA sector over more than 20 years. Highlights include leading a £175m capital investment programme for Imperial College London designed to transform the experience of the then 13,000 students at the college, through the development of facilities and services including new halls of residence, sport centres and catering outlets.

He has also held posts as commercial services director for the University of the Arts and as a non-executive director position with University of Essex Campus Services; has chaired the Audit Committee for the ANUK/Unipol Codes of Management; has been chief executive of Unipol Student Homes; and has been a trustee of Cass and Claredale Halls of Residence Association.

He has also worked as director of university partnerships at Campus Living Villages, and has chaired Property Week’s Student Accommodation Conference for many years.

Jackman now runs Jackman Education Solutions, providing consultancy advice to the education sector, particularly universities, student accommodation firms and independent schools.

For his impact on sector growth and change and his effect on huge PBSA projects, which have changed the shape of the sector for the better, the judging panel was thrilled to inaugurate Jackman into the Property Week Student Accommodation Awards Hall of Fame.

The judges said: “Paddy Jackman has made a significant and enduring impact on the PBSA sector through his dedication to promoting and raising its profile.

“With a deep knowledge of the industry and a passion for its growth, he has been instrumental in advancing PBSA standards and advocating both for students and operators.”


Student Accommodation Awards 2024 | THE JUDGES

  • Neil Armstrong, joint head of student property, Knight Frank
  • Louise Bena, managing director, Luna Students
  • Melissa Browne, deputy director of commercial services and estates, University of Kent
  • Paul Browne, managing director, Meaningful
  • Laura Carter, communications director, Homes for Students
  • Dexter Copeland, managing director, TSL
  • Jane Crouch, chief operating officer, Fresh
  • Candace Davies, assistant director of commercial services, Lancaster University
  • Deepa Deb, partner, head of international real estate investment, Watson Farley & Williams
  • Andrew Howarth, assistant director, Student First Group
  • Philip Hillman, strategic board adviser, Abodus
  • Allan Hilton, chief executive, Affordable Accommodation for Students Association (AA4S)
  • Amina Hofri, head of applicant experience and conversion, King’s College London
  • Paddy Jackman, independent consultant, Jackman Education Solutions/Campus Living Villages
  • Gemma Le Marquer, chief customer officer, Empiric Student Property
  • Rebecca O’Hare, assistant director (residence life and accommodation office), University of Leeds
  • Martina Pardo, founder and director, A Designer at Heart
  • Alex Pease, chief executive, Watkin Jones
  • Deborah Prince, chief marketing officer, UPP
  • Mark Quigley, managing director – UK real estate finance, Beaufort Capital
  • Nick Riley, managing executive director, Whittam Cox Architects
  • Simon Scott, lead director – living capital markets, JLL
  • Nkasi Stoll, research culture manager, King’s College London
  • Richard Stott, managing director, Kexgill Group
  • Brian Welsh, founder, OPRE Solutions
  • Neil Young, investment chair, Young Group
  • Debra Yudolph, founder and chief executive, SAY Property Consulting