From local roots to national impact. The next generation of scientists, engineers and AI builders can come from right here.
Pilton sits in the north of Edinburgh, close to the shore of the Firth of Forth. It is a community with a proud history, close neighbours and a long tradition of local people working together to improve life in the area.
Young people in Pilton are as bright, curious and ambitious as young people anywhere. What many have had less of is the chance to explore coding, engineering and AI outside school, with the equipment, mentors and role models that make those subjects feel within reach. The Cipher Academy CIC exists to close that gap, here, in Pilton.
Generations of residents who look out for one another and organise for change.
Parks on the doorstep and the coast a short walk away: an outdoor science lab.
Youth workers, schools, arts and health projects already doing vital work.
Creative, determined young people ready for new opportunities.
Pilton was developed from the 1930s as working-class housing on former farmland. Large post-war estates followed, and high-rise blocks were added in the 1960s. While Edinburgh grew as a capital of finance and culture, Pilton saw far less of that investment, and by the 1980s and 1990s unemployment, poor housing and limited educational opportunity had hit the area hard. Since then, regeneration and community-led projects have helped the area renew itself, and the next chapter is still being written.
Housing built on former farmland
High-rise blocks added
Unemployment and inequality deepen
Community resilience and renewal
The Cipher Academy's first programmes begin
Science, technology, engineering and maths are hiding all around Pilton. Go on a walk, spot these eight things, and tap each one to unlock the STEM secret inside. Find all eight to earn your badge!
Any bridge counts, from a footbridge to the Forth bridges far away on a clear day.
Watch one change colour three times. Can you write down the order?
Pick a bus stop. How many minutes until the next bus? How many buses an hour?
Visit the shore with an adult. Is the water high or low? Check again a few hours later.
Look up at roofs, bus shelters and signs. Which way is the panel facing?
Count the windows on one floor, then the number of floors. Estimate the total!
Next time you are in a shop, listen for the beep at the till.
Find a leaf in the park. Is it the same on both sides? Look at its veins.
Always explore with an adult, take care near roads and water, and never go anywhere you have not been given permission to visit.
Parts of Pilton are among the 20% most deprived areas in Scotland, according to the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation, with persistent challenges in income, education and employment. These pressures shape young people's access to enrichment activities and to visible routes into well-paid STEM careers.
Areas within Pilton fall among Scotland's most deprived 20% (SIMD).
Less access to devices, reliable connectivity and STEM enrichment.
Fewer visible routes and role models into AI and technology careers.
Source: Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation. Explore the data zones for Pilton on the SIMD map.
We will deliver free weekend clubs and holiday programmes that build confidence through Logic and Numbers, the twin foundations of AI, mathematics and science. Learners gain hands-on experience, mentoring, and clear pathways into further study and careers.
Role models from science and technology who help learners plan their next steps.
Become a mentorThe Cipher Academy is being built with Pilton, not just for it. There are three ways to have your say.
Aged 11 to 18 and live in or near Pilton? Help us choose projects, test activities and design our clubs. A parent or carer will need to get in touch on your behalf.
Join the panelDo you have memories or photos of Pilton you would be happy to share? We would love to include them, with your permission and full credit.
Share a storySchools, youth groups, community centres and local businesses: let us work together to reach more young people.
Partner with usHelp young people in Pilton become confident creators of technology, and future contributors to Scotland's AI and technology workforce.
