Public Programmes Student Panel
Welcome to the Public Programmes Student Panel at the University of Birmingham – where your voice can help shape the heartbeat of our events, activities, and community engagement efforts at The Exchange, the University’s vibrant city centre venue in Centenary Square.
As a valued member of our Student Panel, you'll be involved in crafting experiences that resonate with our diverse audiences. Your insights, feedback, and creative sparks will support us in our mission to make our public programme more engaging, compelling and inclusive.
Collaboration is key; together, we'll brainstorm ideas, share perspectives, and you’ll work hand-in-hand with the Public Programmes team to bring exciting ideas to life. Whether it's through event planning, brainstorming sessions, or engaging activities, your contributions will leave a lasting impact.
And it's not just about making a difference – it's about personal growth too. Membership on our Panel is a paid opportunity that also counts towards the University's employability skills awards, enriching your academic journey with real-world experience.
What does the Student Panel involve?
What does the Student Panel involve?
The panel will meet once a month at The Exchange, during these meetings you’ll meet University staff, take part in the planning and delivery of events, and learn how the team and wider organisation works. There might be times when you’ll work some extra hours, for example when leading up to an event. All working hours will be agreed together with the Public Programmes team in advance.
You’ll work with the rest of the Student Panel and the Public Programmes team to co-produce two events at The Exchange, one in February and one in summer 2025. In February you’ll co-produce an event which links with our programme celebrating the 125th anniversary if the University. In summer you’ll co-produce an event for other students, drawing on insights and knowledge gained from your experience.
The Student Panel will run from October 2024 – June 2025.
What’s in it for me?
What’s in it for me?
You will gain hands-on experience of co-producing exciting and engaging events, and an insight into the running of a public programme at a city centre venue. You will have unique access to networks in the city, as well the opportunity to work with a range of partner and community organisations.
You will have the opportunity to participate in trips and visits, attend talks by guest speakers, receive staff support and mentorship, and benefit from training and learning opportunities during their time as members.
In partnership with the Careers Network, membership of the Student Panel can be counted towards The Birmingham Award, the University's employability skills award for undergraduate students, or the Postgraduate Professional Development Award (PPDA) which is the equivalent for postgraduates. The awards support students from all disciplines to develop, recognise and articulate their skills in preparation for real-world recruitment.
Student Panel members will be paid at the rate of £12 per hour. Additional preparation and event delivery time will be paid, as well as attendance at meetings, trips and visits which fall within the normal meeting times.
Who can join the Student Panel?
Who can join the Student Panel?
We are looking for students who:
- Are studying at The University of Birmingham, in any subject and at any level.
- Are interested in public engagement and believe in the importance of engaging a wide range of people with the research that is taking place at universities.
- Are willing to try new things and work with others who may have different views to their own.
- Have excellent communication, organisational and time-management skills.
- Are reliable and trustworthy.
How do I apply?
How do I apply?
To apply to be a member of the Student Panel, please email Kate O’Connor, Public Programmes Officer k.oconnor.1@bham.ac.uk with the following information:
- Please confirm your name, and which course you are studying at University of Birmingham
- A copy of your CV
- Tell us about why you would like to apply for this position, and what skills and experience you feel you could bring to the Student Panel (up to 300 words)
- Tell us about a time when you worked as part of a group to achieve something (up to 100 words)
The deadline for applications is 09:00 on Friday 4 October 2024.