This year’s workshops are grouped under four thematic pathways: Student Staff Journey, Student Support and Wellbeing, Events Planning, and Getting with the Program. Below is a short description of each pathway and which workshops relate to that theme, helping you to select which workshops best suit your interests and development goals.
This pathway focuses on the comprehensive experience of student leaders from recruitment to ongoing development, equipping them with the tools and support they need to succeed in their roles. Sessions in this pathway will explore strategies for attracting and selecting the right student leaders, providing training to build competence and confidence, and fostering growth through ongoing development opportunities. Learn how to create an environment where student leaders feel empowered, supported, and equipped to lead their communities.
Effective recruitment is essential for building a strong student staff team. This session will explore strategies for advertising student roles, and ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds are aware of opportunities. Learn how to highlight the benefits of these roles, craft inclusive messaging, and attract candidates who are passionate about supporting the campus community.
Hiring student staff is a critical process that shapes the culture of Residence Life. This session will cover best practices for selecting the right candidates, from developing inclusive job descriptions to conducting effective interviews. Participants will gain insight into how to evaluate applications, assess interpersonal skills, and ensure diversity and equity in the hiring process.
Ongoing development is key to fostering leadership and growth in student staff. In this session, we’ll explore strategies for offering continuous development opportunities, providing constructive feedback, and supporting staff in building their professional skills. Learn how to create a culture of growth and accountability that empowers student leaders in their roles.
This pathway explores how Residence Life professionals can support student wellbeing and create an environment where students thrive. From proactive support strategies to promoting mental health and well-being, these sessions will equip you with the knowledge and tools to foster a healthy living environment for all students. Learn how to address the diverse needs of students and respond effectively to mental health concerns, ensuring students are empowered to care for themselves while receiving appropriate support.
Early intervention is critical in addressing student challenges before they escalate. This session will focus on proactive strategies for identifying students who may need support and how to engage them early. We’ll provide practical tips for creating an environment where students feel comfortable reaching out and staff are trained to respond with empathy and effectiveness.
Inclusion is at the heart of building vibrant, supportive communities in residence halls. This session will explore strategies for fostering inclusivity, ensuring that all students, regardless of background or identity, feel welcomed and empowered to participate in their hall community. Learn how to create spaces that encourage diverse voices and equitable involvement.
As global tensions rise, it’s important to support students as they navigate the impact of international conflicts. This session will explore ways to provide non-partisan support for students affected by global events. Learn how to create a supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds while promoting understanding and empathy among all residents.
This pathway emphasises how to create engaging, intentional, and accessible events and programs that foster a sense of community and belonging in residence halls. These sessions will focus on planning events that address student needs, encourage participation, and are inclusive of all students. Learn how to plan effective events that not only meet students’ interests but also build a positive culture and support student development.
Planning events that are inclusive, accessible, and safe is essential for building a sense of community for all students. This session will provide practical guidance on how to plan events that cater to diverse needs, ensuring that all students can participate regardless of ability, background, or circumstance. We’ll explore strategies for promoting accessibility in programming, creating safe spaces, and fostering inclusivity.
Intentional programming is essential for addressing the diverse needs of students. In this session, we will focus on how to plan events that align with student interests, developmental needs, and community goals. Participants will gain tools for assessing the needs of their residents, creating relevant programming, and engaging students in meaningful activities.
Collaboration is key to creating impactful and dynamic programming in Residence Life. This session explores how to build and leverage partnerships with campus partners, student organisations, and external community resources to enhance event offerings. Learn practical strategies for identifying potential collaborators, aligning goals, and creating synergistic programs that enrich the student experience and maximise available resources.
This pathway explores the evolving role of Residence Life in a changing world, focusing on how to manage residence life programs effectively while adapting to new challenges and shifting societal contexts. Sessions will examine the broader shifts in higher education, global issues, and new trends in student behavior, helping Residence Life professionals navigate these changes. Learn how to balance operational excellence with student-centered approaches in an ever-changing environment.
Integrating student development theory into everyday Residence Life practices can enhance the impact of student interactions and programming. This session will discuss how to apply various student development models to the work of Residence Life, providing a framework for understanding students' developmental needs and tailoring support to meet them.
In this session, we’ll explore the shift from traditional punitive measures to educational and restorative approaches to student conduct violations. Participants will learn how to implement restorative justice practices, encourage accountability, and provide students with opportunities for growth and learning following incidents.
Creating a safe and supportive environment for students means addressing issues related to substance use. This session will explore harm reduction strategies that aim to minimise the negative effects of drug and alcohol use while fostering a culture of personal responsibility and well-being. Learn how to create programs that educate, support, and encourage healthy decision-making among students.
Managing student expectations is crucial for maintaining a positive campus experience. This session will explore strategies for setting clear expectations with students about their roles, responsibilities, and the resources available to them. Learn how to effectively communicate with students, foster mutual respect, and address concerns before they escalate into challenges.
