Newcastle University won first prize for best ‘student experience’ at last night’s Guardian University Awards. The university was recognised for its mental health project, which provides students with anxiety or depression with quick-to-access treatment as an alternative to NHS care.

Jisc sponsored the student experience category of the Guardian University Awards this year. The student experience category awards an innovative project that has positive impact on the academic or personal experience of students. Newcastle University received the award from Bex Whitehead, our director of group communications, in front of hundreds of university delegates.

Bex Whitehead comments:

“Congratulations to Newcastle University who has established a psychological therapy training and research clinic to provide students suffering from anxiety or depression with easy access mental health care.

The university’s entry is an example of making a meaningful and impactful change in supporting student mental health when demand for services is so high and sees them successfully win this year’s award.”

Top marks

Champion of the night was Nottingham Trent University. They have been crowned university of the year in the Guardian’s annual awards for their inclusive curriculum and focus on social mobility.

The University of Westminster and York St John University came highly commended in the ‘student experience’ category. 

The University of Westminster was recognised for their Democratic Education Network (DEN). This hub links students with local community groups and international universities by working on projects together.

York St John University was commended for their ‘All About Respect’ project. The student-run campaign promotes zero tolerance of sexual violence, harassment and abuse at university and in the wider community.