Public Programmes Student Panel

As a Student Panel member, you'll work with fellow students and the Public Programmes team to co-produce a public event at The Exchange, bringing exciting, cutting-edge research from across the University to life for diverse audiences. You'll gain hands-on experience in event planning and delivery while building confidence in public engagement.

The Panel meets once a month in person at The Exchange. Together, you'll develop ideas, shape events and activities, and learn how public programmes are created in a supportive, collaborative environment where your ideas will be valued. You'll also meet members of the Public and Cultural Engagement team, artists, and other contributors, giving you a behind-the-scenes insight into how cultural events are developed and delivered.

There may also be opportunities to work additional paid hours around key events and group visits, with all working hours agreed in advance with the Public Programmes team.

The Student Panel runs from October 2026 to April 2027.

As a Student Panel member, you'll be paid £13.45 per hour for attending meetings, planning activities, and supporting event delivery.

Through this role, you'll gain valuable, hands-on experience in co-producing and delivering public events, while developing skills in collaboration, communication, and public engagement. You'll also have the opportunity to visit other cultural organisations, hear from guest speakers, and take part in additional learning experiences throughout the programme.

Membership of the Student Panel can also count towards The Birmingham Award (for undergraduate students) or the Postgraduate Professional Development Award (PPDA). The award supports students from all disciplines to develop, recognise, and articulate their skills in preparation for future employment.

We are looking for students who:

• Are currently studying at the University of Birmingham, in any subject and at any level.
• Have an interest in public engagement and are enthusiastic about connecting diverse audiences with university research.
• Are confident, self-motivated, and willing to take initiative while also working collaboratively as part of a team.
• Enjoy sharing ideas, listening to others, and contributing positively to group discussions, recognising that events are co-produced with fellow Student Panel members and the Public Programmes team.
• Are open to new experiences, value different perspectives, and are willing to try new approaches.
• Have strong communication, organisational, and time-management skills.
• Are reliable, responsible, and able to commit to the programme throughout its duration.

To apply to be a member of the Student Panel, apply through the Worklink recruitment service. Applications will open in September 2026 for the 2026/27 cohort.

If you would like to discuss the role, please email Kate O’Connor, Public Programmes Creative Producer k.oconnor.1@bham.ac.uk.