EPQ

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) provides an opportunity for you to pursue your own academic interests in a chosen topic.

You will undertake independent research, developing a range of valuable skills including time management, decision-making, critical thinking and problem-solving.

Year 12

The project can be either a specific essay-based study or the production of an ‘artefact’ (e.g. play, video, book, sculpture, photographic journal) and accompanying report. Although this is an independent study project, you will receive support through weekly sessions with your supervisor and fortnightly taught skills seminars which cover a range of study skills such as referencing, research methods and writing techniques. The taught element is supplemented with an online MOOC course developed by the University of Bath and designated study sessions.

This valuable qualification is highly regarded by both employers and universities.

The EPQ, offered as a stand-alone qualification, is equivalent to half an A-Level (graded A*-E) and attracts useful additional points for university applications, with many universities making lower entry offers to students who have completed the EPQ.

Examples of EPQ Project Titles

As long as you do not replicate a topic you are studying in your other A Levels you are free to be creative and choose a topic that really interests and excites you. Some examples of project titles are:

• Should drilling for oil in the ANWR be permitted?
• How far is hydroelectricity the answer to meeting the European Union’s renewable energy targets?
• Is there a glass ceiling in the legal professions?
• Can I design and create an affordable laboratory coat for GCSE Science students? (artefact)

Detailed course information can be found in the Sixth Form Prospectus.