Creating Connections: Fostering Belonging and student success through targeted support

This interactive workshop introduces a dynamic initiative aimed at fostering belonging, community, and resilience within large, diverse undergraduate cohorts. Recognising the challenges students’ face—such as navigating complex timetables, balancing personal and academic commitments, and accessing essential services—this approach provides timely, structured support through weekly 'touchpoint' sessions led by a curated student support system. This strategy reflects Myers' (2013) insights into the psychological, social, and practical pressures encountered by university students. The initiative emphasises tailored, inclusive interventions that align with students' academic and personal development, reinforcing the concept of 'learning well.' Grounded in principles from SIRC (2007), it underscores the importance of belonging and social identity in promoting well-being. These sessions address key themes like employability, well-being, and academic skills. Co-created with student partners, the content is designed to be relevant to students' lived experiences, fostering authentic connections and a sense of belonging. This approach aligns with Cook-Sather and Felten's (2017) student-partnership model, promoting student voice, shared ownership, and collaboration. Participants will be guided through the development and implementation of the initiative, from initial concept to execution. The workshop highlights the value of co-creating content with students, the advantages of a blended delivery model, and key lessons learned from multiple phases of implementation. This collaborative process aligns with Matthews' (2018) perspective on the benefits of student partnerships for enhancing engagement and shared responsibility in learning.
Session Format
The workshop begins with an exploration of common challenges in fostering belonging within higher education. The session incorporates a blend of presentation, collaborative discussion, and live problem solving. Facilitators will present key concepts, evidence, and the impact of touchpoint sessions, providing real-world examples and case studies. Participants will engage in a co-design activity, allowing them to apply the principles discussed to their own institutional context. The final segment of the session features a reflective discussion where participants can share their experiences, offer insights, and seek guidance on implementing similar initiatives at their institutions. This collaborative environment encourages the exchange of ideas and fosters shared learning.
Key Takeaways
Participants will gain insight into how this model fosters student engagement, amplifies student voice, and supports academic progression and personal growth. They will leave with practical strategies and a transferable toolkit to support community-driven initiatives across disciplines, ensuring they are equipped to implement these approaches within their own institutional contexts.
Learning Outcomes
1. Attendees will be able to design and implement a community-building initiative within their own context, using a co-created, student-centred approach.
2. Attendees will understand how to foster authentic engagement and a sense of belonging among large, diverse student cohorts through structured, timely, and inclusive support mechanisms.
References
• Cook-Sather, A., & Felten, P. (2017). Engaging Students as Partners in Learning and Teaching: A Guide for Faculty. Jossey-Bass.
• Matthews, K. E. (2018). Engaging students as partners in learning and teaching: Principles and practices. Routledge.
• Myers, C. (2013). Facilitating transitions to higher education: A student support perspective. Student Support Services Journal, 8(2), 15-25.
• SIRC (2007). Belonging, social identity and student well-being: Report from the Social Issues Research Centre. Social Issues Research Centre.

Alignment with Conference Themes: This initiative strongly supports the overarching ‘Learning Well' theme of the Conference, The session reflects three of the themes: Engagement by showcasing how co-created 'touchpoint' sessions promote active student participation and personalised support. It exemplifies Connections and Partnerships by fostering meaningful relationships between students, staff, and the broader academic community. The approach also addresses the theme of Meaning, as it helps students make sense of their educational journey through a holistic support system that emphasises well-being, employability, and life readiness. Collectively, these themes demonstrate how a student support system can cultivate a sense of belonging and establish a safe, supportive environment that drives meaningful academic and life outcomes for both staff and students.