Masterclass Overview

This full-day training is designed for university staff, including support services, tutors, student union staff, and other key personnel. The training aims to provide an in-depth understanding of eating disorders, their prevalence within the university population, and the challenges students face in managing their condition. Participants will explore the significant impact of eating disorders on students' academic performance, mental health, and overall university life. The masterclass will also focus on identifying effective support strategies, understanding the recovery process, and equipping staff with the tools and resources to guide students. Through collaborative discussions, attendees will examine how universities can enhance their approaches to supporting students dealing with eating disorders, fostering a supportive and compassionate environment across the campus. 

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this masterclass, participants will be able to: 

1. Develop an Enhanced Understanding of Eating Disorders 
   • Gain an in-depth knowledge of different eating disorders, their signs and symptoms, and how they specifically manifest in university students. 
   • Understand the prevalence of eating disorders in university settings and the factors contributing to their development. 
2. Examine the Impact of Eating Disorders on University Students 
   • Learn how eating disorders affect students' academic performance, mental health, social relationships, and overall university experience. 
   • Recognise how eating disorders can interfere with students' emotional and psychological development, leading to challenges in their academic journey. 
3. Identify Effective Support Strategies and Resources 
   • Explore proven support strategies to assist students with eating disorders, including communication techniques, practical interventions, and student-centred approaches. 
   • Understand the role of various support services, including counselling, peer support, and mental health professionals, in helping students recover. 
4. Explore the Challenges of Recovery and How to Encourage Students 
   • Examine the obstacles students face when seeking recovery from eating disorders, such as fear, shame, and resistance to treatment. 
   • Learn how university staff can provide ongoing encouragement, fostering a supportive environment that promotes recovery and personal growth. 
5. Collaborate on Improving University Approaches to Eating Disorder Support 
   • Collaborate with colleagues to identify key themes and areas for improvement in the university's approach to supporting students with eating disorders. 
   • Develop strategies for creating a comprehensive, whole-campus approach that ensures all staff members play an active role in supporting affected students.