What is a liminal space?

Liminal literally means ‘threshold’. Liminal space is an in-between space, a place of transition, of waiting and not knowing what will happen.

We all experience this at different times in our lives and it is in this space that we challenge assumptions, reshape perspectives and draw on our skills to try and navigate our way through the tumultuous change that is occurring. Time spent in this space is often difficult, unfamiliar, unclear and at times, heartbreaking. It is within this space though that we learn new ways of dealing with situations, different skills and how to adapt to these circumstances.

Learning spaces of the future will need to provide opportunities for young people to develop a sense of self, connectedness and resilience, as well as hope and possibility for the future. While we all experience these periods of change, some are much more traumatic and distressing than others. It is the development of social and emotional skills and connections that we can draw on to ensure a smoother and more positive transition. With passing time, kindness, care, compassion and support, we are be able to help our students make sense of this space and move through it with greater clarity, understanding, purpose and transformation.