Children from eight primary schools in Lochaber have attended an inspirational STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) fair at Bun-sgoil Ghàidhlig Loch Abar.

More than 160 children from primary schools including Caol, Lundavra, St Columba’s Banavie and Inverlochy took part in a STEM workshop, shared displays of their own class learning and spoke to local employers about STEM careers.

The Career Hub featured a number of employees, including Mowi, BSW Timber, John Muir Trust, UHI STEM Hub, Science Skills Academy and Aberdeen Science Centre.

The event, aimed at primary five pupils, was organised by the RAiSE (Raising Aspirations in Science Education) programme, which is delivered by The Wood Foundation, Education Scotland and the Scottish Government.

In February, the organisation hosted an event at Ben Wyvis Primary School aimed at improving the teaching of science in primary schools across the Highlands and Scotland as a whole.

Recommended: Highland STEM Event Held to Improve Science Teaching

Caol Primary School’s project, which showcased computer games using digital tech platform, MakeyMakey, was named the winner of the showcase event.

Children from the primary school were presented with a trophy, with judges at the event remarking that they were impressed by the children’s impressive problem-solving and creativity skills.

Commenting on the event’s success, Primary Science Development Officer in the Highland region for RAiSE, Emily Brown, said: “The Lochaber STEM Fair provides a wonderful opportunity for young people, teachers and the local community to come together and inspire, excite and learn from one another about how STEM impacts the region.

“The highlight of the day was hearing the young people talk so enthusiastically about their displays during the Showcase. Motivating learners at a young age and providing the platforms to meaningfully engage them in STEM is vitally important for creating the workforce the region needs for the future.”