A university-based high school science outreach program: design and immediate outcomes of an authentic science research experience

University-based outreach programs can provide high school students with opportunities to engage in scientific research beyond that typically available in schools. Despite their prevalence, few Australian outreach initiatives have been systematically designed, delivered and evaluated. Our study examines the design and immediate outcomes of a high school science outreach program delivered annually at a research-intensive university. The program was designed to be curriculum-linked, with access to academic researchers and specialised equipment. A mixed-methods evaluation was conducted using pre- and post-program surveys collected between 2021 and 2024. Matched participant responses (n = 205) were analysed through paired-sample t-tests of self-reported research skills experience and a single-item measure of science identity, alongside inductive thematic analysis of open-ended responses. Statistically significant gains (with large effect sizes) were observed for research skills, including data collection and understanding the research processes. A moderate positive shift was observed in participants’ science identity. Qualitative findings highlighted opportunities to do research and interact with researchers. The study contributes to the limited empirical evaluation of Australian university-based outreach by describing a scalable, curriculum-linked program. The findings highlight that informal, authentic science research experiences can complement formal school curricula to extend opportunities for scientific skill development and strengthen students’ science identity.