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The University of Southampton's strong foundations for public engagement and its commitment to growth have been recognised with a Silver Engage Watermark by the National Co-ordinating Centre for Public Engagement (NCCPE).
This national quality mark acknowledges universities that have embedded meaningful engagement into their strategic priorities and are actively investing in long-term improvement.
Sophie Duncan, Co-director of the NCCPE, said: "Public engagement is a core strategic commitment for the University of Southampton, shaping its approach to education, research and knowledge exchange.
"We are delighted to award the university a Silver Engage Watermark. Southampton has shown strong leadership and a highly developed culture of support for public engagement."
She continued: "We were impressed by the University's commitment to openness and partnership, the strong public engagement support, and the clear frameworks underpinning this commitment. These strengths, combined with the dedication shown across the institution provide a powerful foundation for the future. We are delighted to recognise Southampton's achievements through this award."
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The University runs a well-established and popular programme of festivals, roadshows and outreach activity, including its annual Southampton Science and Engineering Festival (SOTSEF) and Southampton Arts and Humanities Festival (UoSArtsHumFest).
In September, the University will host the five-day British Science Festival, featuring around 100 free public events, exhibitions, performances and installations to celebrate the people, stories and ideas at the heart of science.
Professor Mark Spearing, the University of Southampton's Vice-President for Research and Enterprise, said: "We are honoured and delighted to receive the Silver Engage Watermark, in recognition of our commitment to public engagement.
"Our festivals, events and roadshows connect researchers with thousands of people of all ages each year, giving them an opportunity to find out more about the world around them.
"As we look ahead to hosting the British Science Festival in Southampton in September, our commitment to public engagement continues to grow."
