Welcome week: Treasuring the Treasure Hunt

Posted on: 23 September 2024 by Dr Gemma Ahearne in Blog

Welcome Week is always a highlight of the academic year, marking a renewal of energy and hope for the months ahead.

Last year, our new Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology (SSPC) students braved our treasure hunt in the pouring rain, but this year we were blessed with glorious sunshine, making Welcome Week even more brighter and inviting for everyone!

During Welcome Week, our priority is to make sure students feel confident navigating the campus, fully supported and truly part of our community. We aim to give them the warmest welcome possible, helping them settle in and feel secure as they begin their journey with us.

There is a growing epidemic of student loneliness, and we must embed wellbeing into the curriculum. Part of the rationale behind the treasure hunt is to create opportunities for students to make friends early on, helping to combat isolation and loneliness. You can find recommendations for fostering belonging in higher education on the WonkHE website.

Two students walking through campus.

Here at Liverpool, we have a magnificent campus and excellent opportunities for students to meet others, engage with services and thrive in their studies. We know students are more likely to engage if they receive peer support early on. The treasure hunt encourages students to work in small groups, though the option to work independently is always available. For accessibility reasons, we acknowledge that not all students will be able to move around campus, and we facilitate online alternatives for students with energy-limiting health conditions.

Colleagues across the university have provided small tasks at locations across the whole of campus including the Career Studio, School of Law and Justice and Sport Liverpool. Students took photos at these locations, with prizes for the winning teams. The more creative the photos and responses, the better!

Building community within the curriculum and valuing the treasured space of campus are key to enhancing students' experiences. Short exercises like treasure hunts familiarise students with new spaces and reduce anxiety during their first week of study. They also provide a chance to meet new friends in a low-pressure environment, while problem-solving together.

We look forward to welcoming our students to class this week!

About the Author

Dr Gemma Ahearne is a Senior Lecturer in Criminology, Student Engagement Lead for SSPC, Faculty Lead for Community and Belonging, and member of the Liverpool Learning Framework development group. Please email her with any questions or collaboration opportunities.