Following student feedback, 2024 saw the launch of 'UoB Xtra' - our programme of free events, activities and opportunities designed for you to unwind, connect and learn before the end of the academic year.
Over the three weeks, there were lots of exciting and fun activities that took place on and off campus for all students to enjoy...
Open Air Cinema
During the first week of UoB Xtra, a corner of campus was transformed into an open air cinema, showing two films a day, chosen by students. With deck chairs and bean bags, students could turn up and catch classics such as Cars, Mamma Mia, Shrek 2, Pride and Prejudice, and Avatar. There was something for everyone and we look forward to seeing what will be on the big screen in 2025!
Outdoor games and sport
There were lots of opportunities for fun in the sun (although we did see some summer showers...) with friends as campus was filled with giant inflatable games such as a surf simulator, football darts, an obstacle course, as well as a mini golf course. Students could also take part in free sport. Whether it was unwinding on a yoga mat, scaling the climbing wall or taking part in cricket-based challenges with the team from Birmingham Phoenix, there was something for everyone.
Tours around campus and Birmingham
UoB Xtra provided students a chance to learn more about campus and the city. Just a short walk from our Edgbaston campus is Winterbourne House and Garden - a unique heritage attraction set within seven acres of beautiful botanical gardens. As part of UoB Xtra, students had the chance to explore the grounds and learn more about the different collections of plants. Another popular tour was the street art tour in one of Birmingham's most vibrant neighbourhoods, Digbeth. Check out Student Content Shaper Alice's Reel from the graffiti tour.
Campus 3K Your Way
What better way to get some fresh air than to take part in our first ever Campus 3K. Hundreds of staff and students took the route - running, walking, wheeling, strolling - around our Edgbaston campus. Open to all abilities, the Campus 3K will be returning in 2025 so look out for details on how you can register your free place.
Ten Talks
Inspired by TED-talks, our free ‘Ten Talks’ addressed some big questions, drawing on the research and experiences of leading University of Birmingham researchers and high-profile speakers. Last year's talks included:
- Does Character Matter in Leaders? Sir Anthony Seldon
- Is there a Theory of Everything? Prof. Marika Taylor
- How can we combat the threat of Infectious Diseases? Prof. Alan McNally
- Corporate Digital Responsibility - whose responsibility is it? Prof. Karen Elliot
Global Showcase
From Birmingham to Beijing, we celebrated our diverse global community on campus with a range of fun workshops, including Chinese and Korean calligraphy and a beginner's guide to henna. The Guild of Students hosted a Language Picnic, a chance for students to practice their language skills and meet new people. We also had some amazing performances from students and external groups including African drumming and carnival dancing.
UoB Postgraduate Research Festival
Our biggest celebration of postgraduate research at UoB. During the two-day festival, postgraduates had the opportunity to share their work with the wider University and beyond. Students could also enjoy talks from inspiring speakers as well as a range of workshops.
Watch this space for more on our plans for UoB Xtra 2025.