University of Staffordshire has been recognised at two major awards ceremonies in one night, for its transformational Student Village and Woodlands Day Nursery projects.
At the Partnership Awards 2025, the University’s flagship Student Village development was named ‘Best Social Infrastructure Project’, alongside partners Hochtief and Plenary.
The awards recognise innovative and transformative work being done by public and private sector partners. The judges praised the Student Village project as a clear example of optimising public and private sector skills, technology and design.
The £140 million Student Village project, due to open in Autumn 2026, will offer high-quality, net-zero carbon accommodation designed to promote sustainability, student well-being, and a thriving campus community.
Featuring 1,000 new student rooms, at its heart is the Hub, a cutting-edge social and study space, featuring sustainable timber-framed construction, high-performance glazed facades, and intelligent energy management systems.
A self-financed solar power model, the first of its kind in UK student accommodation, significantly reduces energy reliance, reinforcing University of Staffordshire’s commitment to sustainability.
Sally McGill, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Lead for Sustainability, said: “We are delighted to be recognised with this award, alongside our project partners. The Student Village project is more than accommodation; it is a bold statement of our values, designed with sustainability, student well-being and accessibility at its core.”
Ian Prescott, Managing Director of HOCHTIEF PPP Solutions UK, said: “This award recognises the exceptional teamwork and shared vision that has shaped the Student Village. Together with the University and our partners, we are delivering a development that will not only meet students’ needs today but will also stand as a benchmark for sustainable, future-focused infrastructure.”
Shyra Muthusamy, Associate Director of Plenary, said: “It’s an honour to see the Student Village project celebrated for its innovation and collaboration. This is a shining example of what can be achieved when partners work together to create spaces that inspire, support and uplift the communities they serve.”
On the same evening, at a ceremony in Birmingham, the University saw success at the RIBA West Midlands Regional Awards 2025. The awards recognise outstanding architecture across the region, celebrating projects that demonstrate innovation and contribute positively to their communities.
University of Staffordshire’s Woodlands Day Nursery received not only one of the five Regional Awards, but also took home the ‘Sustainability Award’ and was named ‘Client of the Year’.
Sally McGill added: “We are thrilled that the Woodlands Nursery has been recognised by RIBA Awards. To win this on the same evening as the Partnership Awards is a very special achievement.
“Together, these accolades underscore the University’s bold ambition and enduring commitment to sustainability and impactful partnership working — delivering not just buildings, but lasting legacies for students, staff, and the wider community.”