University News Last updated 24 March
1500+ pupils, 132 placements, 78 schools and 38 researchers…
Some of the key statistics from the past decade as Birmingham City University (BCU) prepares to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its hugely influential partnership with The Brilliant Club.
Set up to improve access to higher education for students from underrepresented backgrounds, BCU and The Brilliant Club have more than made their mark across the city.
“BCU PhD students have had a huge impact over the last 10 years through their work as Brilliant Club tutors,” said Rosa Smith, Tutor Engagement Director at The Brilliant Club.
“They provide youngsters with the unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and develop critical thinking skills to help with their next steps into higher education.
“The BCU researchers are excellent role models, too. By going into schools, they show young people that university is accessible whatever your background.”
Around 45% of students at BCU in 2024/25 come from most deprived areas in the country. More than half of BCU undergraduates are the first in their family to go to university.
According to Jacqueline Taylor, the partnership lead for BCU, researchers also benefit from their involvement with The Brilliant Club.
“Our partnership brings untold possibilities for our researchers, such as building specialist expertise whilst teaching their research to a new audience, all while being paid,” she said.
“Crucially, through the wonderful work of The Brilliant Club tutors, we are part of a national movement to widen access to higher education, addressing structural inequalities and making real-world change in our region. It is an honour to be celebrating this huge milestone.”
Since 2015, dozens of BCU PhD and post-doctoral researchers have delivered university-style courses to small groups of state school pupils aged 8 to 18 years.
The goal is to provide a unique learning experience beyond a normal day in the classroom.
“Providing content outside of the curriculum to students allows them to think, question and be passionate in learning,” said Reuben Mount, a PhD student and Brilliant Club tutor.
“It was a genuine joy to see them develop their thinking and see the fascinating ways that the theories and concepts were applied.
“Giving the students a deep subject with a lot of complexity to it resulted in excellent discussions and some exemplary work.”
Applications to become a Brilliant Club tutor for 2025/26 are now open.
Interested doctoral and postdoctoral researchers can apply via The Brilliant Club website.
BCU will also host a virtual information session on Tuesday 1 April.