University News Last updated 02 November
Birmingham City University (BCU) and Sustainability West Midlands (SWM) are teaming up to help students find careers in sustainability with a free membership programme.
The SWM x BCU Student Membership will help them develop connections with employers across the West Midlands, understand more about sustainability careers and build employability skills.
And the best part? Students don’t need to be studying a sustainability-focussed subject to take part! The scheme will be open to students across the University, from engineering, fashion, art and design, business, computing, English and more.
Participants will be encouraged to get involved in practical activities, build their professional networks and learn more about careers where sustainability is becoming increasingly important.
Deborah Phelpstead, Head of Sustainability at BCU, said “We are committed to giving students opportunities to develop the skills, experience and professional networks they need to succeed beyond university.
“As part of our Strategy 2030, we are Developing Talent for Tomorrow. This goes beyond the classroom, and we are equipping and empowering tomorrow’s workforce with a personalised education that gives our students the skills and connections to make a difference in the West Midlands, and beyond.
“This will also be a chance for students to identify how they can support the green agenda through their careers, supporting the delivery and principles the University’s sustainability strategy.
“By making it free we can remove barriers to skills development and networking, giving all our students a fair and inclusive opportunity to thrive in their careers.”
The initiative has been designed to complement BCU’s STEAM strategy, which is breaking down traditional boundaries between disciplines, promoting collaboration, creativity and innovation.
Students will also be recognised for their involvement through the BCU Award platform, an industry-recognised scheme that highlights professional skills gained during their studies.
The SWM x BCU Student Membership will launch in November and will be open to students across all disciplines.
Following the one-year pilot, feedback from students, BCU staff and employers will be used to shape the future of the programme.
Read more about the programme on the Sustainability West Midlands website and sign-up to the free SWM x BCU student membership.