Smaller Universities Gain Ground as Bishop Grosseteste Excels in Student Satisfaction

UK’s Best for Teaching: Bishop Grosseteste University Earns Top Honours in Student Survey

Bishop Grosseteste University, situated in the historic city of Lincoln, has long been recognised for its unwavering commitment to teaching excellence and student support. With a thriving academic community of over 2,000 students, the university has achieved national acclaim for its high educational standards. Notably, in the 2025 National Student Survey, it was voted the best university in the UK for teaching, securing top rankings across three distinct categories, an accomplishment that underscores the dedication of its staff and the quality of its academic environment.

Commenting on the university’s success, Vice-Chancellor Professor Andrew Gower described the strong performance as highly encouraging. In addition, International Admissions Officer Heather Cliffe emphasised the growing appeal of smaller campuses, noting that they enable students to express themselves freely without feeling overwhelmed by large crowds. She further highlighted the university’s welcoming atmosphere, where a strong sense of belonging is fostered, and it is common for individuals to greet one another on campus.

Following its outstanding survey results in teaching, learning opportunities, and assessment feedback, Bishop Grosseteste University is set to adopt a new name, Lincoln Bishop University, from September. The institution also ranked second nationally for learning resources, further reinforcing its reputation for academic excellence. Professor Gower attributed the university’s sector-leading performance to the commitment of its staff and the personalised experience offered to students. Meanwhile, Heather Cliffe observed that the outdated stigma surrounding smaller universities had diminished, as they were once perceived to offer less. She asserted that such institutions now provide enhanced opportunities for personal growth and self-development. This series of achievements marks a significant milestone in the university’s journey towards becoming a leading force in British higher education.

Editor’s Note:

The recent recognition of Bishop Grosseteste University, soon to be called Lincoln Bishop University, in the 2025 National Student Survey shows a clear change in how people view higher education. In the past, top universities were mostly known for being large, prestigious, and well-funded. But now, smaller universities are becoming more popular for their personal approach and focus on students. One of the university’s biggest strengths is its small, close-knit campus, which helps create a friendly and inclusive environment. According to International Admissions Officer Heather Cliffe, students on smaller campuses feel freer to be themselves and are less likely to feel lost in the crowd. This strong sense of community, where people know each other and greet one another, helps build a positive and supportive learning experience. Lincoln Bishop University's high scores in teaching, learning, and feedback prove that quality education isn't size-dependent. Students benefit from personal attention, helpful teachers, and individualised learning, distinguishing it from larger institutions. This reflects a trend of students choosing smaller universities for meaningful support and personal growth.

Skoobuzz believes that, as the view is shifting, it is clear that smaller universities are no longer seen as offering less. In today’s world, where personal attention and well-being matter more than ever, the rise of small, community-focused campuses points to a bright future for higher education.