Session 1 and 2 - Strand 5

Academic societies have long been recognised as powerful spaces for students to deepen their disciplinary identity, develop professional networks, and enhance their learning beyond the curriculum. This session presents the initial findings of a review of current academic societies across the University and examines the extent to which these groups support educational gain, foster belonging, and create opportunities aligned with future skills and workforce needs. Findings highlight both effective practice and the challenges that limit sustainability, inclusivity, and long term impact.

In alignment with the University’s strategic goal of forging meaningful connections with and for students, the session introduces a new pilot within the Faculty of Technology designed to strengthen partnership working between the Faculty and the Students’ Union. The pilot reframes academic societies as professionally inspired learning communities that support transformational growth, expand employability, and enhance graduate distinctiveness. This includes planned activities such as industry linked field trips, external speakers, micro credentials, interdisciplinary networking, and community engaged projects that respond to regional and global challenges.

The pilot model positions societies as multi level, multi discipline networks—mirroring the structure of professional institutes—allowing students to engage within a broad field while also forming interest groups that reflect emerging technologies and specialist pathways. Initial data from staff and student consultations will be shared, highlighting opportunities to improve consistency of experience, equality of access, and the overall contribution of societies to student success.

Attendees will be encouraged to consider how this new framework can be adapted across faculties to nurture a connected, agile and inclusive University community where all students thrive.