New bursary helps students to build a career in the property industry

The University of Portsmouth has partnered with Landsec, one of the UK’s leading real estate companies, to help students from under-represented backgrounds gain a career in the property industry.

Tom Spencer, a first-year BSc (Hons) Property Development student, is the first Portsmouth-based recipient of the Landsec Futures Bursary, to help with the cost of his studies.

The three-year funded bursary provides up to £10,000 per year for a student on the BSc (Hons) Property Development course, as part of a local partnership with Gunwharf Quays.

The bursary is part of Landsec Futures, a £20m social impact fund that aims to enhance social mobility within the real estate sector, the communities across the UK where Landsec invests, and its own workforce. 

Bursary students will also be supported through mentoring from Landsec professionals and partners to provide an industry network, while alleviating financial barriers.

Tom said: “As a bursary student for Landsec, my experience has been incredibly enriching and transformative. My mentor has been welcoming and extremely supportive throughout the first year of my degree. 

“Moving far from home initially made me anxious, but the support I received from my mentor gave me the confidence to succeed both academically and socially at university. Through my mentor, I have connected with industry professionals who have provided valuable advice on succeeding within the property sector and guidance on shaping my career aspirations. These connections also led to a week of valuable work experience with Landsec, where I learnt about the exciting developments Landsec and Gunwharf Quays are currently undertaking, how it will be managed, executed, and ultimately delivered. 

“This bursary has not only facilitated my professional growth but also alleviated financial pressures, enabling me to afford rent and living costs without needing to overextend myself with part-time work. Consequently, I have been able to dedicate more time to my studies, maximising my university experience and fully engage with my degree program. 

“The support from the University and Landsec has been pivotal in ensuring I can focus on my education and professional development, paving the way for a successful future in the property industry.”

Jennie Colville, Head of Sustainability and ESG at Landsec said: “Greater representation in the real estate industry is essential to the future of the places we create. Our Landsec Futures bursary programme is designed to create opportunities for university students studying placemaking courses around the UK, by investing in their careers within the industry. 

“We are delighted to be working with the University of Portsmouth to provide this bursary and look forward to developing our partnership between the University and Gunwharf Quays further."