Edinburgh BioQuarter is a leading hub for healthcare delivery, medical research, and health innovation and has embarked upon a journey to connect with its neighbouring communities in south Edinburgh. Our commitment Provide frameworks to support apprenticeships and career mentoring opportunities as part of the University’s Youth Employment Strategy. Central to our vision is a commitment to work with local communities to address social challenges and deliver inclusive growth across the area.Edinburgh BioQuarter is working with local communities, particularly focusing on their impact on children, families, and the broader social fabric. The neighbourhoods surrounding BioQuarter are some of the most deprived in Scotland.People living here have historically faced barriers to accessing educational and career opportunities, particularly in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths). Scientists and support staff at BioQuarter are breaking down these barriers. They are actively collaborating with local residents, schools, and organisations to ensure that BioQuarter’s resources, expertise, and opportunities benefit the surrounding communities. A community-centred approach Edinburgh BioQuarter’s community engagement programme is anchored by three core principles: co-development partnership working evidence-based action.Key goals include improving science capital, fostering educational attainment, and inspiring young people to pursue STEM careers. This is achieved through carefully designed programmes that engage students, parents, and educators alike. Core initiatives Castlebrae Superlab Located within the Castlebrae Community Campus, the Superlab is a hub for science education and innovation.Developed in collaboration with the City of Edinburgh Council, the lab hosts 60 students and serves as a community engagement space for after-school and weekend activities.This initiative provides hands-on learning opportunities, encouraging students and community groups to engage with science in an accessible and inspiring environment. Science Mentors A weekly mentoring programme, Science Mentors pairs local secondary school students with professionals from the University of Edinburgh, NHS Lothian, and private enterprises.Approximately 18 students from Castlebrae Community Campus participate each week, receiving help with their studies and guidance on university life and STEM careers. Science Buddies Designed for primary schools, Science Buddies connects local students with STEM professionals who provide year-long mentorship and workshops.By building sustained relationships, the initiative raises science capital, boosts confidence, and ignites a passion for STEM among younger learners. Internships for school students Local high school students can participate in four-week paid summer internships, working alongside researchers in a laboratory setting.In 2023, two interns gained hands-on experience, with one now studying biomedical sciences at the University of Edinburgh.In 2024, the programme expanded to include seven students from three schools. Health workshops Addressing health inequalities, a workshop on HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccinations was delivered to over 360 secondary school students.Vaccination uptake increased from 42% to 60% after the workshop. This collaboration between local NHS teams and academic partners showcases the BioQuarter’s holistic approach to community well-being.These workshops will be extended to a further three schools in 2024/2025 school year. Discover Programme Targeting food insecurity and social isolation, the Discover Programme provides STEM activities to families during school holidays.Combining science-based fun with free meals, it engages both children and parents, creating a welcoming environment for marginalised families. Measurable impacts Over 1,060 pupils and 500 community members have participated in BioQuarter’s community engagement programmes in 2023/24 alone. Students have reported increased confidence in STEM subjects, higher aspirations, and improved academic performance. By addressing health education gaps, the HPV workshops have likely contributed to much improved health outcomes for local young people. School nurses shared that pupils were much calmer because they understood what was taking place and why. Programmes such as the Science Buddies and Community Science Festival have fostered stronger connections between the BioQuarter and residents. BioQuarter’s initiatives also benefit University staff and students. Over 110 students and 90 staff members participated in engagement activities, gaining valuable experience in science communication and community outreach. 600 secondary students in 2023/24, 460 primary students in 60 workshops, 60% HPV vaccine uptake, up from 42%, 5 students skipped down from 50, 7 student interns in 2024 from 3 schools, 110 University students involved, 90 University staff involved, £52k total funding for SuperLab Foundations for the future Edinburgh BioQuarter’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in our approach and outcomes.Workshops prioritise the use of recycled materials, reducing waste and demonstrating resourcefulness to young participants. Transportation for activities is primarily low carbon, with most volunteers travelling by bike or foot.Additionally, the initiative promotes a circular economy by redistributing unused laboratory equipment to local schools, providing over £20,000 worth of materials in 2023/24 alone. Through these efforts, the BioQuarter addresses community needs but also builds a foundation for sustainable positive change. Conclusion Edinburgh BioQuarter’s community engagement initiatives represent a great example of how academic and innovation institutions can contribute to meaningful societal change.By focusing on inclusive growth and partnership working, the programme bridges gaps in education, health, and opportunity, empowering local communities to thrive. Its success underscores the importance of collaboration, long-term vision, and a shared commitment to social responsibility. This article was published on 2025-01-23
