Spaces in Community are one of the most powerful ways to help incoming students find friends and build a sense of belonging.
By creating targeted Spaces for different interests, backgrounds, and needs, you can help build connections, reduce pre-arrival attrition, and set the stage for a smoother transition into university life.
Here’s how to approach creating Spaces for your accepted and new students, along with some best practices and inspiration for the types of Spaces that we have seen work well.
Who can join my Spaces?
Any member of your Community can join any public Space you add. Community is designed to be self-select in nature, so students can freely join any Space which aligns with their experiences or interests.
Best Practices for Spaces in Community
Start broad, then go niche
Begin with a few core Spaces (e.g., subject-based or housing) and expand as students join and express their interests.Encourage student-led activity
Assign Student Ambassadors to key Spaces, where they can answer questions, monitor what's happening, start conversations, and keep Spaces vibrant.Keep it simple and relevant
Avoid overwhelming students with too many options. Focus on the types of Spaces that directly support their transition.Promote inclusivity
Ensure there’s a mix of Spaces where every student can see themselves represented - academic, social, and support-based.Use clear names and descriptions
A Space named “Psychology Offer Holders 2026” is more effective than “Psychology Chat.”
Ideas for Spaces You Can Create
🎓 Academic
Help students connect with their future course-mates:
By faculty or department (e.g., “Engineering Offer Holders”).
Grouping by degree program (e.g., “BA History 2026”) works if you don't have too many, but can become too saturated if you have hundreds of programs.
🏡 Housing & Accommodation
Support students as they finalise where they will live:
By halls of residence or specific dorms.
Off-campus housing advice and flatmate finder.
Local commuter students’ Space.
🌍 International & Identity-Based
Offer Spaces for students to find community around shared experiences:
By home country or region (e.g., “Students from India”).
First-generation university students.
Mature, online/distance learning, parent/caregiver, or research students.
🎉 Social & Interest-Based
Help students build friendships around common hobbies:
Sports and fitness.
Gaming, music, arts, or film.
Volunteer opportunities.
💬 Support & Wellbeing
Provide Spaces where students can feel supported:
Wellbeing and mental health check-in.
Accessibility, neurodiversity & disability support.
LGBTQ+ student community.
How do I create a new Space?
Click below for the setup steps, cover-image requirements and editing instructions.