St Andrews tops The Times and Sunday Times Good University 2027 guide

Professor Tracy Lightfoot, pro-vice-chancellor for education and students at the University of York: 

“There will be a real buzz around campus this weekend as we welcome new students to the campus for the new semester and maintaining our top 20 ranking is a testament to the dedication of all of our staff and our ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, research-led teaching alongside an outstanding student experience.

“League tables are important, but they don’t define us. What really matters is what happens on campus every day – the quiet triumphs in seminar rooms, the unique connection between staff and students, and the way our community looks out for one another. 

“That’s what keeps York special, and it’s wonderful to see that energy recognised once again.”

Professor Deborah Longworth, pro-vice-chancellor for education at the University of Birmingham: 

“Being named The Times & Sunday Times Sport University of the Year recognises the collective effort of an entire community. 

“Whether competing at the highest level, participating in grassroots sport, conducting cutting-edge research or supporting major events, our students and staff embody what makes the University of Birmingham such a special place for sport.

“As we celebrate this achievement, the University remains focused on its ambition to be a global leader in sport, education and research, while continuing to inspire future generations of athletes, coaches, teachers and innovators.”

Professor Hugh Brady, president of Imperial College London: 

“It is fantastic to see the hard work of our community recognised with this honour by The Times and The Sunday Times.

“Imperial has a special place in the UK’s higher education sector – through our unique STEMB focus, our highly collaborative multidisciplinary teaching and research environment, and our commitment to putting innovation and impact at the heart of what we do.

“As a London university, we are fortunate to be based in one of the world’s greatest cities and sit at the nexus of the UK’s knowledge ecosystem. 

“Our deep connections to complementary clusters of research, innovation and education excellence across the UK are combined with a highly international outlook – welcoming a student body drawn from over 140 countries with strong links to leading universities, knowledge organisations and industry across the globe.

“This set of ingredients is unusual, hard to replicate and at the heart of Imperial’s global competitiveness, reputation, and ranking.”

Professor Phil Taylor, vice-chancellor and president at the University of Bath: 

“We are delighted to retain our ranking as one of the UK’s top 10 universities. This achievement reflects the collective efforts of our staff and students and the strength of our community. 

“I would like to thank colleagues across the University for their dedication, ambition and commitment to excellence which will help us build an even stronger future for Bath.”

Professor David Walker, pro-vice-chancellor for education and students at the University of Brighton: 

“Our rise of 13 places reflects the progress we are making right across the university and the collective efforts of our staff, students and partners.

“Over the past year we have strengthened the student experience, improved outcomes, received national recognition for our work on equity and student support, and deepened our contribution to the region through new partnerships.

“We’re proud of how far we’ve come, but our focus is firmly on the future. 

“We have ambitious plans to build on this momentum, creating even greater opportunities for our students, delivering research and innovation with real-world impact, and continuing to establish Brighton as a university that is making a difference locally, nationally and internationally.”