University delight at 'standout' national honour

A higher education institution has secured a national accolade.

Teesside University has been named Daily Mail Modern University of the Year 2026.

Bosses say the honour “highlights the transformative impact of its learning and teaching, setting a new benchmark for modern universities across the country”.

Judges highlighted the university’s Future Facing Learning initiative, which equips students with digital learning technologies, and a campus masterplan that has seen more than £300 million spent on facilities.

The latter includes the £40 million Digital Life building, which aims to support skills development for the industries of tomorrow.

The Modern University of the Year award comes after the university secured an outstanding Ofsted rating for its apprenticeship provision.

Professor Paul Croney, Teesside University vice-chancellor and chief executive, said: “We are uncompromising in our pursuit of excellence, and this award is further acknowledgement of our commitment to students and partners.

“This latest award firmly establishes Teesside University as a destination of choice for students globally.

“I would like to thank our staff, students and friends for the immense contributions they have made to delivering another tremendous accolade.”

Alastair McCall, Daily Mail University Guide editor, added: “Teesside was the standout candidate; it is progressive and ambitious for students, putting them at the heart of everything it does.

“The university makes a difference.

“It delivers higher education to thousands of students that might miss out in a region with some of the lowest university participation rates.

“Bold initiatives, including providing an iPad for all students, wipe out digital poverty at a stroke.

“It is a model institution financially in a sector riddled with debt and deficits.”

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