Millennium Point has unveiled a brand-new £700,000 commercial kitchen, built to cater for up to 1,000 guests per day and designed to elevate the venue’s event experience while driving forward its sustainability ambitions.
The kitchen, created in partnership with AC Event Catering and designed by DSA Consultants, means the award-winning city-centre venue is now able to deliver a seamless onsite catering service for conferences, exhibitions, banquets, and private events. By removing the need for external kitchens or temporary facilities, organisers will benefit from smoother logistics, reduced environmental impact, and greater flexibility in menu design and delivery.
A commitment to sustainability
The fully electric kitchen underlines Millennium Point’s commitment to sustainability. It eliminates the use of natural gas across the site and is future-proofed to integrate with renewable energy sources such as PV and carbon-neutral shippers as they come online. This move not only enhances green credentials but also reduces operational emissions for every event held at the venue.
For event organisers and delegates, the advantages are clear: faster service, fresher food, improved efficiency, and the assurance of sustainable practices at every stage. The investment represents a step-change for Millennium Point as it continues to cement its reputation as one of Birmingham’s leading event destinations.
Rebecca Delmore is the Millennium Point’s Commercial Director: “There are so many reasons the launch of a brand new, onsite kitchen at Millennium Point is a real investment in the future at Millennium Point. Of course, in the near future, it’s an excellent step forward for us, but the real value lies in it as a long-term commitment to the venue being more and more sustainable, and continuing to improve the experience for attendees at our wide range of events.
“Our events service an incredibly diverse range of interests and issues, and being able to provide organisers and guests with fresher, higher quality, locally sourced food — all prepared onsite — is a massive step forward and one that showcases our commitment to the community and the betterment of the venue and its work.”
Millennium Point welcomed fans from far and wide on Friday (4 July) for the world cinema premiere of The Nine Lives Of Ozzy Osbourne, a powerful and unflinching portrait of Birmingham’s most iconic rock legend. The event featured two packed screenings, with the later show followed by a special Q&A with Jack Osbourne in front of a sold-out audience.
The Nine Lives of Ozzy Osbourne
The film, which traces Ozzy’s amazing journey from his working-class roots in Aston to international rock stardom, was shown on Birmingham’s biggest screen — a fitting venue for an evening celebrating perhaps the city’s most recognisable icon. With candid reflections on the ups-and-downs of what has been one hell of a career, and footage that captures the grit, chaos and brilliance of Ozzy’s life, the film leaves fans with something truly memorable.
Jack Osbourne, who appears throughout the documentary, joined the audience for a live discussion after the 6.30pm screening. His presence added a much-welcomed personal touch to the evening, and he gave some rare insight into the making of the film and his father’s legendary career.
He was joined on stage by the film’s director, Greg Johnston, who said that “Being able to share the theatrical debut of our film with fans who came from all corners of the world in Ozzy’s hometown of Birmingham was such an honor and privilege.”
A fantastic weekend in Birmingham, filled with Ozzy Osbourne fans
Playing host to this event was also important to the team at Millennium Point. Abbie Vlahakis is CEO at the venue: “Being a part of this monumental occasion for this incredibly creative and talented city was an honour for us at Millennium Point. Ozzy is a global superstar, no doubt. But here in Birmingham, he is a local legend and someone the city holds dear. We hope everyone that visited for the weekend’s events had an amazing time and comes back again soon.”
The premiere at Millennium Point was part of a landmark weekend for Birmingham, taking place just one day before Ozzy’s final ever live show, Back to the Beginning, at Villa Park on Saturday (5 July). The concert marked an emotional end to a groundbreaking career, and featured a historic reunion with original members of Black Sabbath. Other acts to appear on the day included some of rock and metal’s biggest names, in Pantera, Slayer, Metallica and Guns N’ Roses.
Proceeds from the premiere are being donated equally to Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorns Children’s Hospice, adding a lasting legacy to an already unforgettable night.
Birmingham‑born Atiyyah Zafar has been awarded the 2025 Millennium Point scholarship, giving her a fully funded place on Birmingham City University’s Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence course, positioning her to join the UK’s next wave of ethical AI talent.
Employers have been warning that Britain could be 150,000 digital specialists short by 2030, so judges felt Atiyyah’s commitment to building AI tech is a sound investment in the future, emphasising why investing in local talent matters now more than ever.
The former Joseph Chamberlain Sixth Form College student is the 11th winner of the scholarship and intends to focus on AI tools that help close the digital skills gap in the West Midlands — an area that, apparently, the area is falling behind in. She said:
“Winning the scholarship made me feel really validated, and like all my efforts had been seen. It feels like this is the first time I’ve been able to actually voice my opinions about what’s going on in the West Midlands. A lack of digital skills has led to high unemployment, growing inequality, and increased online risks in the region. Many people struggle due to limited access to resources, fast-changing technology, and a lack of education.”
Abbie Vlahakis, CEO of Millennium Point, added: “Atiyyah is evidence of our belief that it’s important to back bright minds early. You’re not just changing a life, you’re strengthening the region’s future workforce. And with the potential for a digital skills crisis in the near future, it is this exact sort of thing we need to be backing.”
Last year’s recipient Patrick Mezzano is now studying Real Estate at BCU after impressing judges with his affordable‑housing ideas, underlining how the scholarship channels talent into sectors crying out for fresh thinking.
Over the last 10 years, the Millennium Point trust has supported organisations in the region with more than £45 million — including discounted rents, donations, scholarships and other support.
Award-winning venue and charity, Millennium Point, welcomed over 1,000 local school children to explore the world of engineering at its free SciENGINEERING Showcase on 10 June. The event offered students an exciting day of hands-on workshops, live demonstrations, and inspiring talks from leaders in the engineering sector.
A host of leading organisations—including Thinktank, The Air League, Rolls Royce, British Army, Birmingham, BOM & BCU STEAMhouse —joined forces to deliver engaging activities and insights into careers in engineering. From structural design challenges to robotics and sustainable tech, students got a glimpse into the innovations shaping our future.
Abbie Vlahakis, CEO of Millennium Point, said:
“It is incredibly rewarding to open young minds to the possibilities within engineering. Events like SciENGINEERING are vital in showing students how they can shape the world through creativity, problem-solving, and innovation.”
The SciENGINEERING Showcase was part of Millennium Point’s annual Sci-series, designed to improve access to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths) careers for young people across the West Midlands. This year’s event spotlighted roles such as civil engineers, robotics technicians, and environmental engineers through fun, interactive experiences.
With over £45 million invested in STEM education across the region, Millennium Point continues to empower the next generation of engineers and innovators.
Delivering an impactful STEM event takes more than a great idea — it takes planning, experience and a dedicated team. At Millennium Point, we’ve spent years developing a programme of events that excites pupils and supports teachers.
Our events are built around real-world STEM concepts, from sustainable engineering to space science. Behind the scenes, our education and event teams work together to design interactive workshops, presentations and guided tours that fit school learning goals.
Every school is different, and our team helps tailor events in line with curriculum areas, age groups and SEN considerations, while also considering the changing shape of the job market. Our on-site staff handle set-up, safeguarding and technical logistics.
Visits often include a screening in our giant screen Auditorium, and hands-on sessions where pupils get to build, test or create. We also provide downloadable pre-visit and post-visit materials so teachers can extend the learning back in the classroom.
It’s not just about the day itself — it’s about the longer term impact. We want pupils to feel inspired and curious, and give teachers the support they need to make STEM education come alive. That’s what makes a Millennium Point event more than just a trip — it’s an experience designed to last.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming a practical tool in education, and one of the most accessible options for teachers is ChatGPT. Whether used for planning lessons, generating resources, or offering pupils a new way to explore topics, ChatGPT can add real value to the classroom.
Teachers under time pressure can use ChatGPT to quickly draft lesson plans, suggest classroom activities or even create worksheets tailored to specific learning objectives. For example, a science teacher might prompt it to generate quiz questions on STEM-related topics or write a script for a role-play about climate change.
ChatGPT can also support differentiated learning. With the right prompts, it can produce simplified or advanced versions of the same content to meet the needs of diverse learners. It’s not a replacement for teachers’ knowledge and experience, but it can offer a powerful starting point.
There are also ways pupils can benefit directly. Encouraging older students to ask ChatGPT research questions can help develop critical thinking and digital literacy, provided they are guided on how to assess and evaluate responses.
At Millennium Point, we’re seeing how AI fits into the broader picture of STEM education. Our workshop events explore real-world applications of technology, and we encourage teachers to integrate digital tools into their teaching practice.
Used thoughtfully, ChatGPT can be a valuable ally in making lessons more dynamic and responsive.
The final weeks of term are the perfect time to reward students with a trip that combines fun, curiosity, and a hint of inspiration. For Birmingham-based teachers planning an educational yet enjoyable day out, the city offers several excellent options that can complement classroom learning and create lasting memories.
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum: A STEM-Focused Favourite
Located within Millennium Point, Thinktank is a top choice for schools seeking a trip that’s both educational and interactive. Managed by Birmingham Museums Trust, Thinktank offers curriculum-linked activities across science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM). Highlights include the Science Garden, Planetarium, and engaging workshops suitable for all key stages.
While Millennium Point itself does not offer school trip packages, it supports STEM education through the Millennium Point Charitable Trust, which funds initiatives across the West Midlands to enhance learning opportunities. Schools looking to enrich their curriculum with hands-on science can benefit from both the museum’s facilities and the broader educational ecosystem in and around the venue.
Expand the experience: Outdoor & cultural add-ons
Make the most of your day out by exploring the Eastside City Park, just outside Thinktank. With ample green space and water features, it’s ideal for lunch breaks or post-museum downtime. For groups interested in cultural enrichment, nearby attractions such as the Library of Birmingham or Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery can add variety to the itinerary.
Planning your visit
Teachers can book directly through Birmingham Museums Trust for Thinktank visits. Pre-visit materials, risk assessments, and optional add-ons like workshops or planetarium shows are available. The venue is centrally located with good transport links, coach-friendly access, and facilities that support school group needs.
Birmingham is bursting with exciting opportunities for young minds to explore the world of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) this summer. Whether you’re a parent looking for engaging experiences during the school holidays or a teacher planning an educational day out, the city offers something for everyone.
Millennium Point is one of the leading destinations for STEM-inspired learning. With interactive exhibitions and hands-on workshops, provided at a series of events throughout the year, the venue seeks to make learning fun and accessible.
This summer, for example, sees the return of the venue’s summer school series — this time in partnership with Playground Games (Forza series) — where 11-15 year olds can take part in three days of activities built to improve their digital skills and more. And that’s all after the fourth installment of SciSERIES in June, which is an annual event dedicated to inspiring the next generation of students.
Elsewhere, Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum offers immersive exhibits and a planetarium experience that children won’t forget. And, the Library of Birmingham is also running summer reading challenges and tech-based storytelling workshops.
What makes these activities especially valuable is their ability to spark curiosity while supporting learning beyond the classroom. STEM careers are growing rapidly, and early exposure through fun, informal education helps build confidence and interest in these fields.
For those looking to stay local, Millennium Point’s central location makes it an ideal base for a full day out, with nearby green spaces and family-friendly restaurants. Booking early is advised for workshops and events.
This summer, make it a priority to mix learning with leisure. Birmingham’s STEM offerings are not just educational – they’re making a real impact.
Millennium Point and the Osbournes have announced a new exclusive event for Birmingham. On Friday 4th July, the Birmingham landmark will host the world premiere cinema screening The Nine Lives Of Ozzy Osbourne – the acclaimed film detailing the extraordinary life of the godfather of heavy metal, with special guest Jack Osbourne.
For more than five decades, Ozzy Osbourne has personified rock and roll rebellion. In an unparalleled career, Ozzy has won 5 Grammy Awards, has been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame twice, and became the first metal performer to be given a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Nine Lives Of Ozzy Osbourne traces his life from his childhood in Birmingham, through the meteoric rise of Black Sabbath, to even greater success as a solo artist.
The world premiere is the latest exciting news for Midlands music fans following the announcement of Ozzy Osbourne’s final ever concert at Villa Park on the following day. With a huge line-up of rock’s biggest stars joining him for the concert, The Nine Lives Of Ozzy Osbourne is set to complete a city-wide weekend of celebration for Ozzy.
Fans will have two opportunities to enjoy The Nine Lives Of Ozzy Osbourne – at 4pm or 6.30pm on Friday 4th July. At the end of the evening, special guest Jack Osbourne will be appearing live for an exclusive Q&A for bookers of the 6.30pm screening. Following the iconic MTV series The Osbournes, Jack has found huge success as a reporter and presenter in shows such as Jack Osbourne: Adrenaline Junkie, Saving Planet Earth, Ozzy & Jack’s World Detour, and Jack Osbourne’s Haunted Homecoming.
Millennium Point CEO, Abbie Vlahakis commented: “Like all of Birmingham, we love the Osbournes, and are excited to be hosting the world premiere of The Nine Lives Of Ozzy Osbourne at Millennium Point. Birmingham’s biggest star belongs on Birmingham’s biggest screen!”
Profits from the event will be donated equally to Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital and Acorns Children’s Hospice.
Tickets sales for The Nine Lives Of Ozzy Osbourne open at 10am on Thursday 22nd May at www.millenniumpoint.org.uk.
Millennium Point has announced a record-breaking year for its events business. In 2024-2025, the company recorded a 35% year-on-year increase in income. The landmark building attracted an increased number of national conferences to the area and welcomed 62,000 visitors to over 500 events across the year.
New Event Spaces and Technology Drive Millennium Point’s Growth
Millennium Point’s continued events growth follows recent improvements to the building, including new event spaces and increased investment in presentation, screening and live-streaming technology. Offering an easily accessible location and Birmingham’s biggest screen, the venue is a popular destination for conferences, film premieres and brand expos.
Rebecca Delmore on Millennium Point’s Record-Breaking Year
Rebecca Delmore, Millennium Point’s Commercial Director, commented “We always put our event clients first and continue to adapt our building and services to give them the best possible customer service. We are thrilled that the team’s hard work has resulted in a record-breaking year.”
The record profits will enable Millennium Point to better support local young people via The Millennium Point Trust. The Trust serves the West Midlands by offering grants, funded degrees, free school events, and networking opportunities to help further employment opportunities.
