TechFest STEM Next essay competition is open to all students aged 16–18, with no subject prerequisites — and it’s not limited to STEM topics. Whether you’re passionate about science, the arts, or the humanities, there’s something for everyone!
It’s a fantastic opportunity to develop valuable, transferable skills such as research, critical thinking, analysis, and communication — all of which are essential for future studies and careers. Participants can choose from three essay categories, each offering a variety of thought-provoking questions to suit different interests. This is an independent project, involving self-directed research and writing. However, students are encouraged to seek feedback from teachers or peers before submitting their final work.
14th May - 12th June 2025 ()
Online
Construction and built environment
Digital technologies
Engineering and manufacturing
Food and drink
Healthcare
Energy
Creative
Chemical sciences
Awareness
Secondary S4 to S6 (14-18 year old)
College
Not in education (16-24 year old)
Aberdeen City
Aberdeenshire
Angus
Argyll and Bute
Clackmannanshire
Dumfries & Galloway
Dundee City
East Ayrshire
East Dunbartonshire
East Lothian
East Renfrewshire
Edinburgh (City of)
Eilean Siar
Falkirk
Fife
Glasgow
Highland
Inverclyde
Midlothian
Moray
North Ayrshire
North Lanarkshire
Orkney Islands
Perth & Kinross
Renfrewshire
Scottish Borders
Shetland Islands
South Ayrshire
South Lanarkshire
Stirling
West Dunbartonshire
West Lothian