Investor in Students Unveils Insights into Student Accommodation

The Student Experience Accreditation Programme, Investor in Students (IIS), has recently released its highly anticipated Insights Report, titled "Balancing Budget & Bliss."

This comprehensive report is a culmination of feedback gathered over the last two academic cycles, presenting a detailed view of student life within various accommodations.

With an impressive participation of over 20,000 respondents, the report delves into critical aspects of the student experience, offering insights that are invaluable to professionals in the field, accommodation providers, operators, and policymakers.

Large-Scale Data: Diverse Perspectives from 20,000+ Students and 1,279 Staff

The IIS 360º white paper shares thorough analysis of feedback gathered from two waves of student responses.

One of the strengths of the report lies in its scale, incorporating feedback from a vast audience. With over 20,000 student responses and 1,279 staff responses, the IIS 360º white paper presents a substantial and diverse range of perspectives.

This large-scale data allows for a more holistic assessment of the challenges and successes within student accommodations, providing a foundation for informed decision-making.

Entering its third cycle, the Investor in Students accreditation has engaged with over 100,000 students. This milestone underscores the growing influence and importance of the program in shaping the student accommodation landscape.

Key Findings: Shaping the Future of Student Accommodation

The report unveils several key findings that are poised to shape the future of student accommodation:

1. Staff Investment Impact: The IIS 360º Insights Report underscores the significant impact of staff interactions on student satisfaction within accommodations. Recognizing the crucial role of staff in shaping the overall experience, the report calls for a closer examination of staff training and engagement strategies.
2. International vs. UK Student Experience: Through a detailed comparative study, the report explores the unique challenges and triumphs of international and UK students. Understanding the distinct needs of these student groups is essential for creating tailored accommodation solutions that cater to a diverse student body.
3. Inclusivity in Accommodations: The report addresses the accommodation experiences of non-cisgender and minority students, emphasizing the need for more inclusive environments. By shedding light on areas for improvement, the findings encourage accommodation providers to prioritize inclusivity in their offerings.
4. Value for Money Assessment: An in-depth analysis of how students perceive the balance between cost and quality in their accommodation experience highlights opportunities for improvement. This insight is crucial for ensuring that students receive value for money, contributing to overall satisfaction and well-being.

Shaping Future Policies and Practices

Rhys Thomas, the Director of Investor in Students, emphasizes the transformative nature of the IIS 360º white paper. He states, "The IIS 360º white paper is not just a report; it’s a mirror reflecting the current state of student accommodation in the UK. Our extensive research provides actionable insights for enhancing student happiness and success."

The research paper is expected to be a pivotal resource in shaping future policies and practices in student accommodation. By driving positive changes based on its findings, the report aims to ensure that student housing not only meets but exceeds the evolving needs of today’s students.