First launched in 2003, the PSA consistently adapted to meet the needs of students and the graduate labour market. As graduate recruitment processes and the world of work have changed significantly in recent years, the award has been reviewed with the aim of enhancing the student experience.
After a period of consultation with students, staff and employers, The Birmingham Award has been designed to increase flexibility for students and to recognise a broader spectrum of activities to better reflect the diversity of experiences of students. The award will continue to recognise participation in extra-curricular activities and focus on the reflection and articulation of skills.
The Birmingham Award will continue to support undergraduate students to develop, recognise and articulate skills gained through extra-curricular activities in preparation for real-world recruitment processes.
Participation in extra-curricular activities will no longer be recorded through 'PSA points'. Students will declare their participation in four extra-curricular activities through The Birmingham Award. This enhancement aims to make the award more accessible and flexible for students, and to focus on recognition and articulation of the skills developed.
Students who were enrolled on the PSA will automatically be enrolled on The Birmingham Award, and the team will support you to complete the award.
All activities that were recognised through the PSA will continue to be recognised through The Birmingham Award. The Birmingham Award Team will contact students with PSA points in October 2023 with information on the process for declaring your PSA points into activities on The Birmingham Award.
If you have any questions about the transition from the PSA to The Birmingham Award, please contact us at thebirminghamaward@contacts.bham.ac.uk and we will be happy to provide support.