What is the ESSS?
The ESSS is a science competition open to all secondary students of the European Schools. The Symposium organises visits to professional laboratories and scientific establishments, lectures and social events. This school year, it was held for four days from 20 th to 23 rd March 2011. Students find this symposium and its preparation an enjoyable way of finding out what the life of a professional scientist is all about.

What do students have to do?
In the months leading to the symposium, students have to do some practical research. In January, each group submits a report of the results. Based on this report, the judges decide which project will be officially presented to the participants at the symposium.

How does the competition run?
All participants present their work as a poster, which is then examined by the jury and all those present. The candidates should be prepared for further questions and inquiries by the judges as they circulate. Particularly good researchers of years 4-7 are in addition encouraged to give an oral poster presentation. Such a presentation lasts ten minutes, followed by a five minutes audience question time.

Which languages are used?
The reports can be written in German, French or English. This also applies for the presentations. When answering questions about the project, students may use the language which they feel most confident in or which is most suitable for the audience.

How many students in a team?
Each team can have up to three students, though two is more usual. Each team should have a mentor, which is a teacher who supports and advises them. Many of the other science teachers are also pleased to provide assistance.

Where will it be held?
The symposium is held alternately in one of the European Schools. This year, the European School Brussels II hosted the symposium.

Further information
Further information can be obtained from Dr Getraude Höfs, science teacher at the ESM. Meetings with those participating are held regularly and are announced in advance on the info screens. Students can start a project any time before November, however should bear in mind that the preparation period usually takes several months.