Young Innovators Showcase Robotics Talent in Midlothian at
National Mining Museum Scotland

The VEX GO Expo Scotland returned for its second year today at National Mining Museum Scotland in Newtongrange, bringing together nine primary schools from across Midlothian to showcase their robotic creations and problem-solving skills.

Building on the success of its inaugural year, the Expo celebrated months of learning, collaboration and innovation, with pupils designing, building and programming robots as part of a project linking Midlothian’s rich industrial heritage with the future of STEM careers.

This year’s programme is sponsored by Jera IT, highlighting growing industry support for early STEM education and the development of future talent pipelines.

The competition saw Newtongrange Primary School take first place, with Paradykes Primary securing second and Moorfoot Primary finishing third.

Alongside the main competition prizes, new awards were introduced for 2026 to recognise essential transferable skills. The Amaze Award, celebrating teamwork, communication, coding and collaboration, was awarded to Newtongrange Primary School (Pink Team). The Build Award, recognising creativity, engineering, design and innovation, was presented to Paradykes Primary School (Pink Team). These additions reflect a broader focus on the skills young people need for future careers.

The event was supported by expert judges including Ally Hollins-Kirk, from sponsor Jera IT (guest judge), specialists from the National Robotarium, and Malcolm Beattie, volunteer at National Mining Museum Scotland and Geo-Physics Energy Specialist, who praised the creativity, teamwork and technical ability demonstrated by participants.

In addition to the competition, the British Geological Survey delivered hands-on activities, helping pupils explore real-world applications of robotics in geology, energy and ocean exploration.

Dr Eleanor Dunn, Public Engagement & Events Coordinator from British Geological Survey said:
“We were excited to join this year’s VEX GO Expo and see the amazing contributions from students tackling ocean-themed robotic challenges. During the event, we spoke with pupils about some of BGS’s research, including the development of the Glasgow Geoenergy Observatory, the importance of wind energy, the role of Scottish aquifers in groundwater availability, and the wide range of opportunities that careers in STEM can offer.”

The initiative is a partnership between National Mining Museum Scotland and the National Robotarium, the UK’s centre for robotics and AI based at Heriot-Watt University.

Nine primary schools took part in the programme, with pupils working collaboratively to tackle challenges and present their solutions. The Expo aims to inspire young people to engage with STEM subjects, boosting attainment, and consider future careers in these fields, while also supporting greater equality and inclusion in STEM education.

Hannah Clark, Principal Teacher at Rosewell Primary School, said:
“We are proud to be part of this year’s VEX GO Expo. It is a real celebration of creativity, teamwork and problem-solving through robotics. Events like this give children the opportunity to develop confidence, resilience and valuable STEM skills in an exciting, hands-on way. It has been inspiring to see so many young learners working collaboratively and thinking critically throughout the process.”

Victoria Brown, Education Manager at National Mining Museum Scotland, said:
“We are incredibly proud to have hosted the VEX GO Expo for a second year, building on the success of its debut and strengthening the connection between Scotland’s industrial heritage and modern technological innovation. It’s been fantastic to see the continued enthusiasm and creativity from all the students, and we’re excited to keep growing the event in the years ahead, with even more schools from Midlothian taking part.”

Blair Wilson, Industry and School Engagement Lead at the National Robotarium, said:
“The continued success of the VEX GO Expo in its second year highlights the strength of Scotland’s growing robotics talent pipeline. Seeing returning schools alongside new participants tackling increasingly complex challenges with such enthusiasm shows just how impactful early STEM engagement can be for our future workforce.

“The sustained demand from schools reflects both the appetite for this kind of hands-on learning and the importance of ongoing support. By continuing our partnership with National Mining Museum Scotland, we’re strengthening the bridge between Scotland’s industrial heritage and the technology careers of tomorrow, while equipping teachers with the confidence and tools to deliver meaningful robotics education in the classroom.”

The VEX GO Expo continues to demonstrate how hands-on learning can inspire the next generation, combining creativity, collaboration and technical skills to prepare young people for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

ENDS