Jack Wilshere: Powered by Experience (Virtual Viewing Ticket)

The University of Bedfordshire is delighted to welcome former England international and current Luton Town manager Jack Wilshere as the first speaker in our brand new ‘Powered by Experience’ lecture series.

Taking place on the Luton Campus and live online, this special event will give students and guests the chance to hear first-hand insights from Jack as he reflects on his journey from academy football to the Premier League and into management.

You can watch the lecture either:

· In person at our Luton Campus (G101 Lecture Theatre) - click here to sign up for in-person tickets

· Online, via a livestream - click the 'Reserve a Spot' button at the top of this page

Led by a panel of Media students and staff, the session will explore the lessons Jack has learned throughout his career – including leadership, teamwork, resilience, and high performance – and how these skills translate beyond sport.

This event forms part of the University’s ongoing commitment to Career-Powered Education, providing students with access to industry leaders and real-world expertise.

It also builds on the University’s relationship as the Official Education Partner of Luton Town Football Club, which continues to create exciting opportunities for learning, development, and professional engagement for our students.

What will the event be about?

During this interactive event, which will be led by a panel of students and staff, Jack will discuss the key factors that drive high performance, reflecting on his journey through elite football. The conversation will explore themes such as teamwork, leadership, mindset, and resilience, drawing on Jack’s time as a Premier League and international player, as well as his transition into coaching and management.

Jack will also share how the lessons learned in professional sport can be applied beyond the pitch – including in fields such as media, education, and personal development.

The session will conclude with an audience Q&A, providing a chance to engage directly with Jack and the panel, ask questions, and gain further insight into the realities of performing and thriving at the highest levels of the game.

Biography – Jack Wilshere:

Born in Stevenage and raised in nearby Hitchin, Jack Wilshere began his footballing journey at Luton Town’s Centre of Excellence before joining Arsenal’s Academy at the age of nine. His talent quickly became evident, and he progressed rapidly through the youth ranks, earning his first-team debut in 2008. At just 16 years and 256 days old, he became Arsenal’s youngest-ever league debutant, marking the start of a career that would capture widespread attention.

Jack went on to make 197 senior appearances for Arsenal and, during his time in North London, he collected several major accolades – including the PFA Young Player of the Year award, a place in the 2010–11 PFA Team of the Year, and Arsenal’s Player of the Season. His performances also earned him 34 England caps, having made his senior international debut at 18 years of age. He represented his country at the 2014 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2016.

After leaving Arsenal in 2018, Jack continued his playing career with spells at West Ham United, AFC Bournemouth, and Danish club Aarhus GF. He brought his on-pitch journey to a close in 2022, announcing his retirement after more than a decade competing at the highest levels of the game. His transition into coaching began almost immediately, taking charge of Arsenal’s Under-18 side just four days after retiring. In his first season, he led the squad to the 2022–23 FA Youth Cup Final.

Jack progressed into senior coaching roles soon after, joining Norwich City as a first-team coach in 2024. He was appointed interim manager of the Championship side in April 2025. In October 2025, Jack returned to where his footballing journey first began – taking charge as first-team manager of Luton Town Football Club. Now leading the Hatters, he brings with him a wealth of top-flight experience, a deep understanding of player development, and a connection to the club that first helped shape his path in the game.