The University Design Forum was well represented at last week’s Education Estates Conference in Manchester. Our chair, Trevor Wills, opened proceedings alongside James Lee of conference organisers StepConnect2 and Mike Leigh from the Department of Education and Helen Groves, Architectural Sector Lead at AtkinsRéalis. Some of the most influential people across the education sector attended the conference and Trevor also made significant contributions to the HE Design seminar on Design, Construction & Delivery and also supported the HE Project spotlight on Ulster University and the University of Nottingham Ningbo China.

Changing Policy and practical solutions to combat the climate emergency were the main themes of the conference this year and included some in depth sessions on BIM and the digital model, the hard facts about heat pumps, RAAC, Sustainability and a myriad of subjects on these issues and more. The Education Estates team successfully worked hard to build a comprehensive programme to cover the most relevant issues of the day. Reducing energy consumption, sustainable development and promoting policy and delivery excellence as well as considering the provision of SEN, neurodiversity in education and digital futures.

This framework of micro seminars promotes positive and innovative conversation amongst the attendees and represents excellent value for money. Presentations were in depth and challenged the status quo of planning, material selection and procurement. Involvement in events like this is vital in gaining an insight into the challenges faced by client institutions, the many stakeholders themselves and the financial pressures experienced by universities. Better client understanding promotes better solution provision and we are delighted that Trevor, representing the University Design Forum as well as his own university at Plymouth, was present to help facilitate an impressive sector learning event.

This is an event well worth considering for your diary next year