Community and Belonging at Edinburgh

“Sense of belonging refers to students’ perceived social support on campus, a feeling or sensation of connectedness, and the experience of mattering or feeling cared about, accepted, respected, valued by and important to the campus community or others on campus such as faculty, staff, and peers.” (Strayhorn, 2019) 

At our University we recognise that fostering a sense of belonging is crucial to our students’ wellbeing and success.  This is supported by research that demonstrates how sense of belonging contributes to positive student behaviours and outcomes, including: increased student motivation and engagement; persistence with study; enjoyment and satisfaction; psychological and socioemotional wellbeing; academic self-confidence; retention and transition; academic achievement and organisational advocacy (Pedler et al. 2022; Thomas, 2012; Strayhorn 2019; Allen et al. 2018). 

Sense of belonging at our University starts before students arrive at University and extends beyond graduation. We are committed to  creating lifelong connections and a strong alumni network that supports and mentors current students. By maintaining these relationships, we ensure that our graduates continue to feel connected to the University and can contribute to the success of future generations. 

All of us have a role to play in fostering a sense of belonging among our students. Sense of belonging at our University depends on us all taking action to : 

• create a welcoming and inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated and students feel accepted, respected and valued. 

• provide an accessible environment that removes barriers to participation and ensures equity for all our students. 

• build a vibrant community that provides opportunities to foster meaningful connections between and amongst students and staff and cultivate positive relationships and mutual support.,  

• show that our students are important to us and strive to ensure that students feel they matter to us, and feel cared about and supported. 

• encourage and support students to engage in both academic and extracurricular activities, and  provide opportunities for involvement and active participation in student groups, societies, sports clubs, active health opportunities, cultural events and volunteering activities.  

• promote a holistic approach to student wellbeing, recognising that mental, physical and emotional health are essential for a sense of belonging, and foster an environment that enables students to thrive academically while maintaining their overall wellbeing. 

• provide opportunities for students actively to participate in decision-making processes that enhance the student experience.  

• empower all students to take an active role in shaping their university experience.