Robot promotes science in school

One of the world's most advanced human-like robots dropped into a school in Wigan on Thursday to encourage pupils to stick with maths and science.

Hawkley High School head teacher Roy Halford invited Asimo to meet year seven students with the aim of getting them interested in engineering.

Asimo, designed by Honda, is a humanoid robot that can climb stairs, dance, shake hands and stand on one foot.

It's the first time Asimo has paid a visit to a school in the UK.

See pics of Asimo in action

Mr Halford said: "We hope that the visit from Asimo will encourage students to continue with these subjects and raise standards and achievements in engineering."

Robot dreams

Honda launched Asimo - which stands for Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility - in 2000.

Their next aim is to develop robots that can do simple tasks like make beds.

Honda also want to make machines that can offer advice and even hold discussions, but reckon that's at least another 15 years away.