Best of the Best go to Claridge's

The elegance and sophistication of Claridge's was surpassed only by the nine (of ten) national Finalists at this year's Best of the Best Awards Dinner, held to announce the winner of the 2011 National Student Awards on 27^th September.

The student finalists had all faced the challenges of the national judging panel that morning, followed by an afternoon of mentoring training, before the excitement and anticipation of the evening's glittering event.

250 guests, drawn from the property and construction industry and academia all enjoyed a champagne reception, followed by dinner. National Chairman, Monique Royle spoke of the success of the Awards and their positive impact for previous finalists and winners, in securing employment. Paul Salmon, representing national sponsor, Byrne Group, was equally effusive and endorsed Monique's comments - Byrne Group has taken a number of Awards finalists, both on work placements and full time employment, so impressed are they with the calibre of the students.

After a superb dinner, Cathy Stewart, Awards Champion and Paul Salmon, announced two special Highly Commended awards, which are made at the discretion of the judges.

This year, two finalists really stood out. Firstly, Gillian Steele studying MEng Architectural Engineering at Cardiff University, who is on a work placement with Opus in New Zealand so undertook her interview by video conference; and Lise-Ann Brennan, studying Architecture at Birmingham Institute of Art and Design.

Then it was time to announce the National Winner. Congratulations go to Elsie North, studying Quantity Surveying at Kingston University while working for Faithful+Gould in London. The judges were impressed by her refreshing approach. Facing the panel she had earlier said, "We know we are high risk but employers must trust young people, trust us to do the job."

It was another wonderful night of celebration and aspiration and our thanks go to our national sponsors, Byrne Group and Jones Lang La Salle and our supporters MCD Developments and Argent plc.