Schools and outreach

Since our official opening in September 2022, we have engaged with thousands of young people at over 100 events, workshops and virtual lessons to raise awareness of the positive benefits that robotics and AI can bring to society. Our dedicated schools and outreach team encourage young learners to consider a career in computer science, engineering, and other STEM subjects, building representation and diversity across all demographics, and addressing future skills shortages in an increasingly technological world.

Through a tried-and-tested programme of activities, the team are focused on a number of key engagement themes:

  • Increasing EDI (equality, diversity and inclusion) in computer science, engineering, maths and other STEM subjects;
  • Tackling digital exclusion and reducing the attainment and achievement gap;
  • Addressing future skills gaps in the workforce by building skills in design, engineering and computer programming;
  • Increasing trust and adoption of robotics in the classroom, workplace and at home;

Scottish Computer Science Week – Soft Robotics live lesson

The National Robotarium outreach and engineering team delivered a live lesson as part of the first Scottish Computer Science Week, organised by Education Scotland in May 2023. Over 1300 young learners tuned-in from schools across the country to find out about Soft Robotics, technologies that use materials like silicone, polymers and liquid crystals to behave and react more like living organisms than traditional robotic hardware. Following a live presentation, pupils had the opportunity to create their own soft robots and discuss how they could be applied to different industries.

Three people stand behind a display table at an exhibition event

School tours and visits

We host regular visits and drop-in sessions for schools, clubs and other groups interested in learning more about skills and careers in robotics, computer science and engineering. With a range of flexible spaces and hands-on activities, we can tailor visits to suit different age ranges (6- 18) and group size.

To make an enquiry, complete this form.

Please note: We are now fully booked for school and group visits until after summer 2024. All enquiries will be logged and the team will be back in contact when bookings reopen.

“The activities were fun and insightful about what robotics could do and have already done to the world we live in. The visit was so amazing that I’m now considering doing it as a future career choice.”

“The team at the National Robotarium were friendly and informative and our pupils had a great day enjoying the variety of experiences planned for them. The fully and semi-immersive reality activities were fascinating and showed our students the potential uses of these types of technology. The robotic dog was definitely the star of the day. All of our students were awakened to the possibilities on display, and many are now seriously looking into careers in this field. “

“I would highly recommend this trip for all students as seeing the robots in real life is a fantastic experience. The information shared inspired pupils to want to get into robotics and see possible career opportunities. All the students thoroughly enjoyed the virtual reality experience and getting to see a programming language they learn in school being used in that way.”

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