What we do
Higgs Booze-On
The Higgs Booze-On is PPS’s biggest annual bar crawl, with over 200 students taking to the streets of Birmingham donning custom-made t-shirts. Usually taking place early in first semester, the Booze-On is a great way to meet new friends on your course!
The Booze-On recently celebrated its 10th Anniversary, and usually stops at five bars and clubs in Selly Oak and in the City Centre.
Spring Ball
Happening in February or March of each year, the Spring Ball is the event you cannot miss! A black-tie event where you can dine on a three-course meal, dance with your friends and even have a chat to lecturers. A different theme is chosen each year, with the venue decorated to match!
Previous themes have included “A Night at the Monte Carlo”, “A Banquet on Mount Olympus” and “Under the Sea”. The theme and venue are kept secret until close to the event.
Camping Trip
Taking place after the Summer Exam Period, PPS go on a camping trip to the Gower in Wales, giving everyone a well-earned break. With transport included in the ticket price, all you need is a tent and some marshmallows!
Usually taking place over three days and two nights, we offer activities like a seaside bonfire and sports on the beach. One of our newest traditions.
Sports Teams
PPS offers two 11-a-side football teams (PPS and Maxwell’s) and one netball team. They all play in the campus leagues, against other departments at the University. It’s a great way to stay active, and also have some light-hearted competition! With a relaxed atmosphere, people of all abilities are welcome to join. Learn more by clicking the links below.
Science on Tap
Science on Tap is an event where lecturers come to a bar in Selly Oak, and do a presentation about areas of their research. They will stay for a pint and a chat afterwards, so it’s a great opportunity to get to know your lecturers and ask them about an area of physics you are interested in. They will also bring some PhD students to give you advice if you want to pursue a career in research.
Science on Tap usually happens once per semester, and is free to attend. The speakers will be in the same research group, such as Particle Physics or Astrophysics. This group will alternate each time.
Sober Socials
Don’t be fooled into thinking PPS only offer events for drinkers - we have lots of different sober events that we change up every time to make sure there’s always something for everybody! Past Sober Socials have included climbing, a trip to Cadbury World, rollerskating and a Bob Ross painting night!
We usually have at least one Sober Social per semester. Tickets are bought on the door. We politely request that these events stay sober.
AGM and EGM
Do you love PPS, and want to help organise our events including the Spring Ball? Do you have ideas for new events? Do you want to make friends in other years? If so, you can run for committee at the annual AGM! All committee positions are open for the AGM, and any member can run for any position including the President! The AGM is usually in March.
The EGM usually takes place in October, and is where the new First Year Representatives are elected, as well as any open positions on committee. If you’re a fresher, enjoyed the Booze-On and want to help plan events, run for Year Rep at the EGM!
Quiz Nights
Whether you’re a general knowledge expert, or just want to have fun with your friends, the quiz nights promise friendly competition. With many different types of rounds, everyone has a chance to win a prize!
Quiz nights are usually once a semester, and you can pay at the door. You are welcome to bring food and drinks.
