Brum Bulletin: Campus is in its glow up era
Spoilers ahead! Here's a selection of what's inside:
- Campus is in its glow up era with food and drink changes.
- May's top tips to make your Pride Parade as smooth as possible.
- The Community Pantry is open.
- How are your exams going? You've got this but if you need support, we're here.
- Watch films on the big screen this summer.
- Your last chance to win with Winterbourne.
News
Wetherspoons opening 26 May
Joe’s is the perfect place to catch-up with friends between lectures, enjoy a few drinks, an affordable bite to eat, or have socials with your Student Groups.
The Community Pantry is open
Doing a cupboard clear-out? The Guild’s Community Pantry is accepting donations. And if you need a little help yourself, the Pantry is there for you too.
New food and drink options
From Seattle’s Best Coffee to a Co-op and Wetherspoons, UoB’s food scene is undergoing major change, and affordability is at the centre.
A guide to your first Pride Parade
With Birmingham Pride coming up this Saturday, May shares her ultimate guide to making the most of your first Pride parade - covering everything you need to know.
How are your exams going?
We hope your assessments are going well. Don't forget, your UoBe Ready Hub is the go-to place for study guidance! You've got this, but if it's getting too much, check out our wellbeing support.
The Multifaith Chaplaincy has had a glow-up
The Multifaith Chaplaincy is now open again! It The space had undergone a makeover with a flooring upgrade and repainting of some areas, helping to refresh the well-loved space.
Eid Mubarak!
From everyone at UoB, we wish those celebrating a very Eid Mubarak next week.
Eid ul‑Adha, often called the “Festival of Sacrifice,” commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim and his profound devotion to God. It’s a reminder of faith, humility and generosity.
Muslim students and staff will celebrate in many ways: attending morning prayers, wearing special clothes, cooking delicious meals, donating to charity or simply connecting with loved ones.
Dates for your diary (aka things to do)
Destresstival Tennis
Throughout May
Various locations
Take a break this exam season with turn up and play informal matches! Our activators will provide all the equipment you need for this free session. Book under Social Sport on the Sport & Fitness app.
Bread and Belief: Hope
Thursday 21 May, 15:00-17:00
Oasis Lounge, Multifaith Chaplaincy
Bake, eat and take bread home as we ask ourselves, where do we find hope, and how do we maintain it? All people and perspectives are welcome at our regular Bread & Belief sessions.
Wondrous Wander: Ghost stations of the cross-city line
Thursday 21 May, 17:00-19:00
Meet at North Gate
“Calling at Five Ways, University, Selly Oak, Bournville…” - the cross-city line feels so familiar, but this free walking tour will explore how this wasn't always so. Spy the traces of abandoned stations and stops and hear about other disused lines.
Bank holiday Cricket offer
Sunday 24 May
Edgbaston Cricket Stadium
Don't forget your exclusive £5 ticket offer to see Warwickshire BEARS blast off against Somerset in this cricket double-header! Use the promotional code: BLASTOFF26UOB.
Artisan Market
Tuesday 26 May, 10:00-16:00
University Square
Find tasty food, handmade gifts, and more as the bustling Artisan Market comes to campus!
Careers on the Green
Monday 8 June, 11:00-15:00
Green Heart
The Careers Network team are hosting a fun, future‑focused careers game, a free selfie station, and (if you’re quick!) free ice creams during UoB Xtra. It’s a relaxed way to meet the Careers team and think about your next steps.
That's not all! Check out the full What's On page for more.
Open Air Cinema on campus
During the first week of UoB Xtra, 8-12 June, enjoy our free Open Air Cinema showing two films a day, chosen by you. With deck chairs and bean bags, settle in to watch old favourites and new discoveries with friends this summer.a/)
PGR Corner
The latest updates from the University Doctoral School (UDS) for Postgraduate Researchers.
2026 PGR Talks: Celebrating Black-led research at Birmingham
PGR Talks 2026 will showcase Black-led research being pioneered by Birmingham PGRs. Our speakers will be sharing their work and exploring how their experiences as Black PGRs have shaped their research. Register to hear new perspectives, connect with fellow researchers, and celebrate the impact of Black-led research across the University.
The latest PGR Development Blog issue: 6 years of research in 3 minutes
The PGR Development Blog is a platform for all PGRs to share your experiences. In the latest issue, 3MT Finalist Helen Pakes reflects on condensing her six years of research in empathy and its role in inhibiting violence into a three-minute 3MT presentation.
Find all PG Research Festival events in one Place
The 2026 PG Research Festival events page is now live! This year the PG Research Festival is bigger than ever, pulling together a range of PGR-focused events and opportunities across June – including our annual University Doctoral School Showcase (https://pgrfestival2026.eventbrite.co.uk/) . This is your opportunity to grow your skills and connect with other PGRs, so make sure to get involved.
Have you filled in PTES yet?
Time is running out to fill out the Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES). Tell us what you think about your programme and have the chance to win £150.
Support with your finances
We know conversations around money can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone and there are options designed to help you from a range of circumstances.
And finally (any other bits)
Enjoy 10% off merch in May
The Food, Beverage and Retail team are offering you 10% off University of Birmingham merchandise online throughout May, so you can treat yourself (or someone special!). Use the code UOBMAY10 at checkout.
The countdown is on for Birmingham Gives
Taking part in the Campus 3K on 10 June? Set up a JustGiving page to support Birmingham Gives. Every step you take can help create meaningful change for students at Birmingham.
Thanks for scrolling this far. You've unlocked a freebie
Shoutout to Zara who won a £40 voucher to the UoB gift shop in the last Brum Bulletin competition. Is it your time to score?
Win a scenic summer experience with Winterbourne
Quick, enter now and join our brand-new competition for your chance to win a pair of tickets to a Winterbourne ‘Summer Nights’ event of your choice!
If you have any suggestions for the student newsletter please email: studentcommunications@contacts.bham.ac.uk.