Young people

How can you engage with young people?

There exists a huge array of colourful and well researched resources, support and vocational training which may help inform how you involve young people with your research. The field is extensive, and this is only a selection of what's available.

You may also want to take a look at the School-University Partnerships Initiative to find out more about how universities are working with schools.

Children and youth participation guide

A comprehensive UNICEF compilation of worldwide resources in the field, this guide addresses the growing need to organise the literature on children's participation. Intended as a reference document, most users will read specific chapters rather than the whole guide from cover to cover. 

Participation works: how to guides 

Participation Works, a consortium of six national children and youth agencies, enables organisations to effectively involve children and young people in service development, delivery and evaluation.  Take a look at the 'How To' guides here.

Taking a leading role: a good practice guide 

The use of role models is one tool to inspire young people. Positive role model schemes for promoting science, engineering and technology (SET) to young people use SET practitioners. The research shows that role models can make SET seem more exciting, interesting and relevant.

BBSRC - Science in society, schools and young people: teaching resources

Engaging with young people forms part of the Biotechnology & Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) Science in Society programme. BBSRC provide free teaching resources for primary & secondary school science education, and information on school-scientist links.

Their objective is to enthuse & inspire young people about science; empowering them as future citizens to participate in public dialogue about science & to pursue science-based careers. The school-scientist links & teaching resources enable & encourage researchers to engage with young people, teachers & education professionals, stimulating discussion about the cutting edge research BBSRC funds. BBSRC are one of 7 Research Councils that work together as UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

They are funded by the Government's Department for Business, Innovation & Skills & support around 1600 scientists & 2000 research students in universities & institutes across the UK.

Introduction to working with young people in practice

The Open University run a 60-credit module to help you develop the skills and understanding needed to work effectively with young people and support their informal learning.