EPQ (Extended Project Qualification)

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is studied in the Sixth Form (Years 12 and 13) to promote a pupil’s independent learning and love of academic study. Pupils write a mini dissertation on a topic of their choice and make a presentation to an invited audience. Through this project they learn higher academic skills which are transferable to their undergraduate studies.

The EPQ is an optional extra which pupils can take alongside their A Level subjects. It is a single piece of work on a topic of a student’s choosing that requires evidence of planning, preparation, research and independent learning. It is a significant undertaking by a student and requires a high degree of independence to be a successful.

The course begins with a series of lectures and workshops where pupils are introduced to the principles of academic research and decide upon a specific focus of independent study. This usually complements their existing A level subjects and may be part of the focus of an application for university. The project is undertaken with supervision from a member of staff and can either be a dissertation of around 5,000 words or be the creation of an artefact with supporting analysis.