Beamline for Schools receives a record number of submissions

The global student science competition Beamline for Schools (BL4S) has received a record-breaking number of submissions for its latest edition, reflecting growing interest in experimental physics among young learners worldwide.

Organized by CERN, the competition invites high school students to design real physics experiments that can be conducted at particle accelerator facilities. This year’s surge in entries highlights increasing enthusiasm for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.

According to organizers, teams from dozens of countries submitted proposals, covering a wide range of ideas—from particle detection and radiation studies to innovative applications in materials science and medical physics.

Beamline for Schools offers winning teams a unique opportunity to carry out their experiments at leading research facilities, including CERN or partner laboratories. Participants also receive mentorship from professional scientists, giving them hands-on exposure to advanced research environments.

The record participation is being seen as a positive sign for the future of scientific research, with more students engaging in complex problem-solving and experimental design at an early stage.

Winners are expected to be announced in the coming months, with selected teams earning the chance to turn their ideas into real-world experiments at some of the world’s most advanced scientific institutions.