THREE hundred young people attended a special event at the William McIlvanney Campus in Kilmarnock showcasing robotics, AI technology and STEM careers.

Hosted by James Hamilton Primary, Sgoil na Coille Nuaidh and Kilmarnock Academy, the event was attended by P6’s from Loanhead, Whatriggs and Onthank Primary Schools and supported by scientists from the National Robotarium in Edinburgh and the council’s IT Service.

Olly, Finn, Perrie and Kaitlin from P6 at James Hamilton joined their Head Teacher Lorraine Dougan to welcomed councillors and special guests

They explained that the P6 pupils from all the cluster schools would join into groups, so that they could get to know new friends, and attend eight workshops situated throughout Kilmarnock Academy.

The event got underway with a talk about STEM careers from Blair from the National Robotorium, a facility that has built a world-class reputation in advancing research in robotics and artificial intelligence.

Blair also demonstrated two robots, one that looked like an animal and Pepper, the world’s first humanoid robot that can recognise faces and human emotions.

Pepper was available at one workshop to either give a hug or a high five, which the P6’s thought was amazing.

The P6 pupils also got an opportunity to operate small robots, creating mazes for the robots to follow, to learn about aerodynamics and the world of drone technology, the importance of coding and to find out more about AI and virtual reality.

Head teacher Lorraine Dougan said: “Everyone at James Hamilton Primary and Sgoil na Coille Nuaidh were so pleased to welcome our friends from Loanhead, Onthank and Whatriggs Primaries to the Campus for a fun day of learning.

"This was the perfect opportunity for an early transition event for all our P6’s so that they can get used to learning together."