Science outreach can play an important role in widening participation by helping young people develop scientific curiosity and a sense that science is "for people like them". Opportunities for hands-on science activities, however, can be limited in under-resourced schools and communities. This project explored the use of Foldscope, an ultra-low-cost paper microscope, to support science belonging and engagement with microbiology among primary school pupils. Funded through a University of Manchester Access and Widening Participation grant, curriculum-linked workshops were delivered in primary schools across Greater Manchester. Pupils assembled Foldscopes and used them to investigate everyday biological samples, providing a practical introduction to microscopy and scientific enquiry. Activities encouraged pupils to explore science in an accessible and engaging way while challenging assumptions about who can participate in science. Building on the success of the Manchester initiative, the project was extended through collaboration with schools in Pakistan. Resources and teacher training supported local delivery, demonstrating how low-cost scientific tools can be adapted across different educational contexts. Teacher and pupil feedback highlighted high levels of engagement, enthusiasm and curiosity. Pupils spoke positively about the experience, with some expressing aspirations to become scientists in the future. This presentation reflects on adapting an outreach intervention across international contexts and considers how affordable microscopy can support science belonging among young learners. It will also explore how lessons from working with primary school pupils have informed teaching and learning in higher education, highlighting the value of curiosity-driven, hands-on approaches that help learners see themselves as participants in science.