Belonging: Blurring the Boundaries

This paper applies Whitchurch’s (2008) concept of the ‘third space’ to the emergent territory occupied by further education college students as they ‘cross the boundary’ to continue their studies at the university. Findings reveal that these transitioning students face barriers to success, feelings of being isolated and encounter negative perceptions. While this paper focuses on the Scottish education system and emphasises the Scottish Governments aim to remove barriers to widening access and participation in HE, the findings have a more general applicability and can support a variety of transitions made in the education sector. Research outcomes can, therefore, inform academic leaders, enhance the student experience, guide policy makers and aid knowledge transfer.