GBS completes Leeds move

Global Banking School has relocated from St George House, taking possession of the 26,000 sq ft 1 Wellington Place.

The deal was announced earlier this year by GBS, part of Global Education, a higher education provider delivering vocational, undergraduate, and postgraduate programmes across a range of industries including finance, accounting, business, construction, tourism and healthcare.

GBS has ten campuses across London, Manchester, Birmingham and Leeds, with its Leeds location opening in 2022. It now has a total of 30,000+ students across the UK, with further campuses in Dubai and Malta.

The organisation said it is relocating to improve its student experience, including through higher-quality learning spaces, better transport links, proximity to fantastic food and drink outlets and inspiring outdoor spaces.

Students will also benefit from being co-located with some of the UK’s leading financial companies relevant to their studies.

Previously office space, 1 Wellington Place received approval for change of use as a training facility in November 2023. The new space includes classrooms, with upgraded technology features including floor box charging, IT suites and student support services, and dining facilities.

James Kennedy, deputy chief executive, said: “At GBS, we’re committed to providing the highest quality of education to all our students, regardless of where they choose to study, so ensuring they all have access to the best possible learning locations right across the UK is critical.

“This is a prime location, with links to public transport, car parking, bike storage and is located just off major roads including the A1, M1 and M62, making it easier than ever for our Leeds students to commute each day.

“GEDU is changing lives through education, and GBS is proud to be doing this at all our campuses across London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds.”

Paul Pavia, head of development at Federated Hermes MEPC, the developer and asset manager behind Wellington Place, said: “Wellington Place has firmly established itself as an outstanding business hub in Leeds city centre. We’re now excited to expand on this success by being home to such a well-regarded higher education provider.

“GBS is helping to develop the business leaders of the future, many of which could potentially remain at Wellington Place amongst the leading organisations based here.”

Savills acted for MEPC on the deal.