The European Schools Science Symposium (ESSS) is an annual science competition open to all year 2 – 7 Secondary School students of the European Schools. Individuals or groups of students, guided by a teacher-mentor, are encouraged to explore an area of scientific interest of their choice.. Projects fall broadly into 2 types: Scientific Investigations and Engineering/Design projects

The idea of the project along with some preliminary results are submitted to the Symposium panel of judges, which decides which project will be presented at the symposium. Prizes are awarded for the best entries. Juniors and seniors will be judged separately. The overall winning project in the senior category will represent the European Schools at the European Union Contest for Young Scientists later in the year.

By participating in the Symposium and its preparation, students gain insights into scientific ways of working.