Extended Project (EPQ)

Course Summary

Subject: Extended Project (EPQ)

Course Title: Extended Project (EPQ)

Course Types: Sixth Form

Course Level: Level 2

Age Group: 16-18

Course Description

The EPQ allows each student to embark on a largely self-directed and self-motivated project. Students must choose a topic, plan, research and develop their idea and decide on their finished product.

We encourage creativity and curiosity. A project topic may be directly related to a student's main study programme, but should look beyond the specification. A finished product may take the form of a:

• Research based written report

• Production* (e.g. charity event, fashion show or sports event etc)

• An artefact* (e.g. piece of art, a computer game or realised design)

*A written report must accompany these options. Students must also record their project process in their Production Log. The process of recording and completing a project is as important as the finished product. Both the Production Log and Product will be assessed.

• Manage – identify, design, plan, and complete a project (or task within a group project), applying organisational skills and strategies to meet their stated objectives

• Use resources/research – obtain and select information from a range of sources, analyse data, apply it relevantly, and demonstrate understanding of any appropriate connections and complexities of their topic

• Develop and realise – use a range of skills, including using new technologies, to solve problems, to take decisions critically, creatively and flexibly, and to achieve their aims

• Review – evaluate the outcome, including their learning and performance.

In Year 12

Students will attend the ‘Taught’ element of the course which involves specific lessons.

In Year 13

Further elements of the ‘Taught’ requirements will take place in year 13, as well as a 5 minute presentation of their completed product.

Progression Route 

There are several major benefits to completing an EPQ when it comes to applying to university. At its simplest EPQ helps you with UCAS points - EPQ is valued at 50% of a full A level in the UCAS tariff. But perhaps the greatest advantage of an EPQ is in helping convince top universities to make you an offer as it provides very clear evidence that you have interests and ability which go beyond the A-Level curriculum. In addition, it demonstrates that you are capable of independent reading, research, and essay writing that is the mainstay of most undergraduate degrees. Additionally, an EPQ provides highly relevant material for UCAS Personal Statements and for discussion at university/employment interviews.

Enrichment Opportunities

The Extended Project Qualification teaches some key high-level skills that individual A-level courses don't have time to include, and many students say it adds considerable interest to their sixth-form programme.

Course Entry Guidelines

Entry requirements are grade 4 and above in GCSE English.

See what career this course can give you access

Gallery