The University of Essex has been awarded Best University Halls 2009 in the National Student Housing Survey.

The survey, which attracted 9,000 responses from more than 80 universities and colleges, measures satisfaction levels in all types of accommodation.

Students who took part in the survey were asked about various aspects of their accommodation, ranging from condition and quality to neighbourhood safety.

The award is a fitting tribute to Accommodation Essex’s cultural change programme in recent years at the University, which has focussed on their five core values and providing a real home environment for students.

Darren Baker, Business Development Manager of Accommodation Essex at the University of Essex, said: ‘This had made a huge difference to the student experience.’

There are also further plans to continue this proactive approach to enhancing the community feel at the University.

‘We are thrilled to get this award,’ added Darren, ‘It means all the hard work by staff in providing a home for students has been recognised.’

This is not the first time the University of Essex has won an award for its accommodation. It won a Silver Award in 2006 in the International Student Barometer survey for its accommodation service and first night experience.

For more information
Contact the Communications Office at the University of Essex on 01206 872400 or email comms@essex.ac.uk

Note to Editors
The National Student Housing Survey (NSHS) is an annual survey of students in higher education across the UK. For further information, please visit http://www.nshs.co.uk