Our training and continuing professional development (CPD) consultation showed a clear demand from those in public engagement related roles in higher education and research for more external provision of CPD, and support for a national membership network run by the NCCPE. On the basis of this we have prioritised the development of our public engagement professionals network (PEP Network).
Aims
- Create a sustainable network for public engagement professionals (or PEPs)
- Foster new connections and collaborations
- Facilitate peer support and sharing of learning and good practice
- Advocate for the value of public engagement professionals across the sector
- Share intelligence about the latest thinking and policy development related to public engagement
- Provide continuing professional development for PEPs at various stages of their careers
- Provide access to relevant low-cost training
Who's it for?
This network is primarily aimed at public engagement professionals (or PEPs) working in professional services roles in higher education institutions (HEIs) or research institutes across the UK. Whether public engagement is formally part of their job description or not, this group face a series of common and often unique challenges in working to support or coordinate high-quality public engagement within UK higher education institutions or research institutes.
We also welcome those working in similar roles in the sector, or those working with HEIs, research institutes or funders to coordinate and support public engagement.
We do also welcome members from outside the UK, but the majority of our membership is UK-based and therefore the content of events/discussions reflects this.
What's the purpose?
PEPs often work in quite isolated roles in the sector, and this national network aims to counteract that by mobilising the collective experience and skills of this group and supporting their career development. It will provide access to the latest thinking and expertise about engagement policy and practice, offer opportunities for CPD and training, support members to share solutions and problems, and establish peer support mechanisms. During the first year of the network we will also work with members and other to explore options related to accrediation. We believe that membership of this network will benefit PEPs personally and professionally.
What does membership involve?
The PEP Network is focused around an annual calendar of online events, providing a mixture of professional development - tailored for members at a variety of career stages and with a variety of roles; structured networking and skills sharing; and a chance to hear from the NCCPE and other invited experts about the latest developments in the sector. There is no additional cost for members to attend these events, although spaces may be limited. A quarterly newsletter gives members the chance to share their work, find out about useful resources and gain insights into the sector.
Upcoming events
- Wednesday 21st June, 2 - 4pm: What next for Public Engagement and for the NCCPE?
This event is your chance to ask Paul Manners, co-Director of the NCCPE, and other members of the NCCPE team, any questions you have about the sector, current agendas, and the work of the NCCPE. The NCCPE will share a sneak preview of some of the things we are working on, and explore ways we can work together with the PEP Network in the coming months. You'll be asked to share your questions in advance on our padlet board when you register.
- Thursday 14 September (2-4pm) – Skills session: Producing video assets.
An opportunity to hear from some experts about creating media outputs, with a focus on using video assets to bring your work to life!
- Tuesday 28 November (11am-1pm) – PEP Stories: Career pathways.
Hear from fellow PEP Network members about the journeys they took to becoming a senior changemaker in their institution.
How much does it cost?
Please note: The PEP Network membership fee of £60 has been waived, so membership is currently free of charge.
As we adjust to working in this different climate, we are making a change to the way the PEP network will work for the remainder of the membership year. In the spirit of keeping the sector communicating, sharing knowledge and addressing current challenges together, we are going to waive the PEP Network membership fee until January 2023.
How do I get involved?
Applications for membership are open all year round.
Further information
You can find out more about the results of our consultation in our summary brief. For any enquiries, please contact maddy.foard@uwe.ac.uk.