Diversity Summer School

Learn more about the summer school offered to individuals who meet criteria relating to their social, cultural and educational backgrounds.

The University of Edinburgh is committed to providing equal opportunities for all its students and fostering a culture of inclusivity.  

In line with this commitment, a fully funded residential summer school is available to eligible students interested in exploring veterinary medicine as a subject.  

The week-long Diversity Summer School is designed for school pupils from across the UK.  Eligibility is based on meeting Widening Participation criteria and identifying as belonging to an ethnic or religious minority group or residing in an area of low socio-economic status. 

Diversity Summer School at the Dick Vet

About

The summer school is taught at the Easter Bush Campus using purpose-built veterinary teaching facilities. 

Accommodation is on the Pollock Halls site near the city centre.  Participants are allocated private rooms with a shared bathroom and all meals are provided for the duration of the programme. There is a dedicated Resident Assistant on-site to oversee and assist.  

Transport between campuses is arranged by the School. 

Travel to and from Edinburgh, if required, is also arranged by the School using the University’s registered travel provider.

Academic Timetable

Participants explore topics relating to veterinary medicine through practical and classroom-based activities.   

This can include: 

  • Animal science and research 
  • Clinical skills 
  • Equine hospital and first aid 
  • Exotic animal practice 
  • Farm animal hospital and/or visit to Langhill Dairy Farm 
  • Small animal practice, internal medicine and diagnostic imaging 
  • Veterinary pathology 
  • Veterinary public health 

Social Activities

Edinburgh is famous for a rich history, lush green spaces and a warm, welcoming spirit.  

The time outside the academic activities is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the Edinburgh experience. 

The evening programme is a mixture of arranged activities and free time to explore the city.   

Eligibility

Places are assigned to pupils from a range of social, cultural and educational backgrounds. 

To be considered for a place, you must meet the following criteria: 

  • Identify as belonging to a minority ethnic or religious group, or reside in an area of low socio-economic status 
  • Reside in the UK 
  • Be 16 years old, or older 
  • Attend a state school/college or be a mature student (21 years old, or older) 
  • Fulfill one or more Widening Participation criteria.

Information provided in your application form is used to assign places, so please make sure you answer all the questions as fully as possible. 

Supporting documents 

You must also submit: 

  • Signed Parent or Guardian consent form
  • Teacher or guidance counselor reference

For information about how your data will be used, please refer to our Privacy Statement

Apply

Applications for the 2026 Diversity Summer School are expected to open in May 2026.  

 

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