UPP Chief Exec highlights importance of enhancing the student experience

Sean O’Shea, Chief Executive of UPP, today outlined UPP’s role in enhancing the student experience at a high profile policy roundtable debate. The event, entitled ‘How can universities continue to enhance the student experience at a time of higher education funding cuts?’ was organised by the 1994 Group of leading research-intensive universities, in partnership with UPP.

In his speech, Mr O’Shea called for further cooperation between the public and private sector to help fill the gap in funding and continue to meet the demands and aspirations of students.

The event was chaired by Ann Mroz, Editor of the Times Higher Education. Sean O’Shea appeared on a panel alongside John Hayes MP, Shadow Minister for Lifelong Learning, Higher Education & Skills; Professor Janice Kay, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, University of Exeter and Chair, 1994 Group Student Experience Policy Group and Aaron Porter, Vice President (Higher Education), National Union of Students.

Speaking at the debate, Sean O’Shea, Chief Executive of UPP, said:
“We strongly believe that it is absolutely critical that we all work together to continue to enhance the student experience. As the leading on-campus provider of student accommodation and campus infrastructure we work in partnership with universities, including in this critical area. We’ve drawn over £1 billion of private investment into the sector, to fund campus infrastructure that meets the expectations and aspirations of the student community. With plans to invest a further £1 billion in the sector, we will continue to play our part in improving the student experience and enabling universities to focus more on vital core services such as teaching and research.”

Alistair Jarvis, Director of Communications at the 1994 Group, said:
“It is clear that students rate their experience at 1994 Group universities very highly. The most recent National Student Survey showed that 7 of the top 10 UK universities for student experience are 1994 Group Universities. However, we must not be complacent. Across the 1994 Group, we are committed to continuing to enhancing the student experience and working with student representatives, the wider higher education sector and government to achieve this. Even under challenging financial circumstances, universities have no excuse not to prioritise the student experience.”

The 1994 Group represents 19 of UK’s leading student-focused research-intensive universities. During the event, the 1994 Group launched a new student experience innovative practice report. This new report which gives a selection of innovative examples of how 1994 Group universities are enhancing the student experience. The examples included programmes to enhance graduate employability, creating supportive learning environments, innovative communication and feedback mechanisms, and university wide approaches. The report is available at: http://www.1994group.ac.uk/newsitem.php?item=319

The event was attended by 29 senior representatives across the higher education sector including university leaders, policy makers, business representatives and directors of major higher education organisations.