About Us

About ISSN

History

The International Science Schools Network (ISSN) is a global collaboration of specialist science secondary schools dedicated to advancing excellence in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. Established to promote innovation and international cooperation, the ISSN provides a platform for students and educators to address global challenges through science. Its flagship event, the International Students Science Fair (ISSF), has been held annually since 2005, bringing together participants from around the world to share ideas, foster connections, and inspire the next generation of scientific leaders.

The International Science Schools Network (ISSN) was established to promote excellence in science education and foster international collaboration among specialist science secondary schools. This global collective recognizes that high-quality education and innovation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) are essential to ensuring a successful and sustainable future for our countries and the planet. By working together, ISSN member schools provide a platform for students and educators to develop the skills and knowledge needed to address global challenges.

The Inception of the International Students Science Fair (ISSF)

Since 2005, the International Students Science Fair (ISSF) has been the flagship event of the ISSN. This annual gathering is the premier event of its kind worldwide, bringing together students, teachers, school leaders, and university representatives to exchange ideas and explore the role of science in the modern world. Each year, an elected host school organizes a five-day learning program that includes participants from approximately 35 specialist science schools. These schools are invited to attend as part of the ISSN’s mission to cultivate excellence in STEM education.

The Evolution of the ISSN

The schools collaborating since 2005 have worked collectively to create this unique opportunity for students and educators. Over time, the group has formalized its vision and operations to establish a distinct identity as an influential body of schools. The ISSN seeks to engage a wide audience and advocate for leading-edge science education on a global scale. The network defines “science” broadly, encompassing all aspects of STEM.

To ensure effective governance, the ISSN adopted a set of clearly articulated and agreed-upon procedures. The initial framework for these guidelines was drafted following the 2013 ISSF, hosted by Camborne Science and International Academy in Cornwall, UK. The document has since undergone several revisions and is regularly updated by the ISSN Executive Steering Group during its annual meetings.

Today, the ISSN continues to serve as a collaborative forum for advancing science education. Its mission, embodied in the International Students Science Fair, is to inspire students and educators worldwide and to highlight the importance of STEM in building a better future.

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Vision

Young people empowered to embark on a lifelong commitment to science to tackle globally significant challenges together.

Mission

of The International Science Schools Network

To provide an international network for students, educators and leaders of specialist science secondary schools to learn and conduct research together, and share effective and innovative practice to inspire advances in science education across the world.

STATEMENTS OF INTENT​

Community Building

Build an inclusive and equitable global community of students, educators and leaders to facilitate learning, research and collaboration.

Empowerment for Action

Empower students to respond to globally significant challenges through ethical and empathetic scientific collaboration and action.

Preparation for Leadership

Build the skills and dispositions in students to become future science leaders.

Value

RESPECT

for the diversity, values, traditions, beliefs and expertise brought to the ISSN by each member school;

COLLABORATION

in good faith, with all partner schools, we share our expertise, ideas and, where appropriate, resources, for the benefit of all our students and the promotion of excellence in science awareness and education more globally;

SUPPORT AND INCLUSION

for and of each member school and their staff and students, to allow opportunities which might otherwise be inaccessible, independent of politics, culture, religion, gender or disability;

SENSE OF COMMUNITY

built to allow us to have a reasoned and credible voice for the purpose of the continued advancement of science and science education across the world.

The International Science Schools Network (ISSN)

Goals

01

To ensure the sustainability of the ISSN and the running of the ISSF

02

To build the visibility of the ISSN as a network to institutions, corporations and schools around the world.

03

To ensure the sustainability of the ISSN and the running of the ISSF through reviewing and streamlining operations on a three year basis.

04

To ensure the sustainability of the ISSN and the running of the ISSF through reviewing and streamlining operations on a three year basis.

05

To build the visibility of the ISSN as a network around the world to institutions, corporations and schools through ISSN membership renewal and strengthening.

06

To build the capacity of the ISSN community by:

  • Developing PRISM@ISSN (Principals Roundtable In Support of Science & Mathematics)
  • Developing LENS@ISSN (Linking Educators in Network Schools)
  • Developing SPECTRA@ISSN (Students Promoting Education, Collaboration, and Technological Research in Academia)