BCU students go backstage at NEC’s Events Week Live

Students from across Birmingham took part in Events Week Live 2025

Students from Birmingham City University (BCU) have been given a taste of what it takes to host some of the UK’s top events – including the world’s biggest dog show, Crufts.

Now in its 14th year, Events Week Live is an exciting collaboration between six Midlands institutions and the NEC Group.

Students got hands-on experience at one of the country’s premier event venues – the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) - as well as the opportunity to network with leading industry professionals and explore careers in the sector.

They were also able to take part in expert-led talks, interactive sessions, and exclusive tours of key venues, including the NEC, bp pulse LIVE, and The Vox, a conference venue.

"Events Week Live is a fantastic opportunity for our students to gain real-world insights into the events industry,” said Libby Carter, Course Leader for BA (Hons) Events Management at BCU.

“With the NEC just one train stop from our city centre campus, students can experience events at national and international level, learning from the most influential figures in the sector.

“Seeing the scale of operations behind events like Crufts is invaluable for their future careers.”

Michelle Baldwin, Head of Events at the NEC, said: “It’s brilliant to see Event Week Live going from strength to strength.

“We’ve had first-hand feedback that both the week and the Elite Programme significantly enhance students’ readiness for the world of work, improving their employability after graduation, something we’re proud to be part of.”

Following Event Week Live, some students will be chosen for the NEC Group’s Elite Programme, which provides mentoring from NEC Group colleagues and exclusive shadowing opportunities.

The collaboration with the NEC is part of BCU’s ongoing commitment to providing students with practical, industry-relevant learning experiences.

The University’s BA (Hons) Events Management course also offers an optional full-year professional placement, allowing students to gain further hands-on experience with employers.