Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
“The skills that students develop through the extended project are excellent preparation for University-level study.” - The University of Manchester
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EPQ can be taken alongside any combination of subjects due to the flexibility when choosing a project topic. The only restriction of the course is that a project topic cannot directly overlap with the content from a student’s other A-Level or Applied subjects.
WHAT IS EPQ?
EPQ is a project based qualification that involves students carrying out independent study in order to complete a research project on a topic of their choosing. It is a fantastic opportunity for students to take an area that they are interested in and produce a high quality academic project that will help them to further develop a range of important skills that are highly valued by both universities and employers.
In studying EPQ, students will enhance their ability to: organise their time effectively, set objectives and create action plans to meet their goals, conduct research effectively, analyse and evaluate sources of evidence, produce an extended written report and carry out presentations.
WHY STUDY EPQ?
EPQ is the equivalent of 50% of an A-Level. This makes EPQ an ideal option to be selected alongside three other A-Level or Applied subjects, and this is a route that is popular amongst many of our students.
Every year EPQ students achieve a 100% pass rate, with the vast majority of students attaining the top grades.
HOW IS EPQ DELIVERED?
EPQ is completed in Year 12. The course is delivered through one to one supervision, mirroring dissertation style learning commonly found in universities. Each student will work directly with an experienced member of staff who will act as their supervisor. Meetings with the supervisor take place regularly, during which time students can discuss the progress of their projects and receive any necessary guidance and support. There will also be a number of study skills days across the year, where students will participate in a variety of sessions aimed at developing the key skills required to be successful in EPQ.
Whilst every effort is made to support students with their EPQ, it is important to note that the majority of the work for the project will be completed independently by students in their own time. Therefore studying EPQ requires students to be resilient and self-motivated in their approach to their studies.
DEPARTMENT STRENGTHS AND RESOURCES
EPQ is delivered by experienced staff with the necessary expertise to guide students through the process of completing an extended project. Staff have an in-depth understanding of the assessment criteria for the course which enables them to provide appropriate support to help students achieve their maximum potential.