Students given behind-the-scenes access to Crufts through NEC’s Event Week Live
Students from universities across the UK were given behind-the-scenes access to one of the country’s most iconic events as part of Event Week Live 2026 at the National Exhibition Centre during Crufts.
Event Week Live a week-long programme, gave students practical, behind-the-scenes experience of a major live event, including venue tours, industry talks and insights into the many careers that bring large-scale events to life.
Students from Birmingham City University, University College Birmingham, University of Birmingham, Coventry University, Manchester Metropolitan University, Derby University, Gloucester University, Northampton University took part in the programme, gaining insight into the wide range of roles that support major live events.
The event is a hands-on programme that gives aspiring event professionals behind the scenes access to one of the UK’s most iconic live events, alongside tours, talks and practical experience across the NEC Campus.
Now in its 15th year, Event Week Live has grown from a local initiative into a respected skills and careers pathway, connecting students with the breadth of roles that bring major live experiences to life, from event operations and venue management to commercial, marketing, supply chain and technical delivery.
The impact of the programme is reflected in recent research from Birmingham City University, which found that 90% of students agreed that attending Event Week Live broadened their understanding of events management, while 100% said it supported their learning and employability.
Seventy-three per cent reported that the experience enhanced their passion for the industry, underlining the programme’s role not only in skills development but also in inspiring long-term careers.
This year’s programme took place in the week following the NEC’s launch of its new identity as the Nation’s Experience Capital. As the venue celebrates 50 years as the backdrop to millions of experiences, it is also looking ahead to its next chapter.
NEC head of events, Michelle Baldwin, who has led the Event Week Live initiative since its inception in 2011, said: “As we mark 50 years of the NEC, it feels especially important to invest in the next generation. Event Week Live opens doors by giving students behind the scenes access, practical learning in a live environment, and the chance to explore the huge range of careers across the NEC.
“It is always brilliant to see students experience the scale and teamwork behind events like Crufts, and to watch their confidence grow across the week. I am incredibly proud of how the programme has developed since we launched.”
Event Week Live also provides a route into the NEC’s Elite Programme, where selected students receive longer-term mentoring and shadowing opportunities with NEC colleagues.
With growing interest in the format across the sector, Event Week Live is gaining attention as a model that other venues can learn from and adapt. It shows how live events businesses can play a direct, practical role in developing future talent.
