The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a standalone qualification taken alongside A-levels and is an opportunity for students to research a topic area of their choice. The EPQ is designed to extend and develop students' abilities beyond the A-level syllabus and prepare for university or their future career.

How it works:

Students have one hour a week on their timetables to work on their projects and will be assigned an appropriate supervisor. The course starts with structured lessons on methods of research, how to keep references and how to organise projects. Supervisors work closely with their students to decide on an appropriate title for their project and will guide them at each step. The outcome of the project can be a design, performance, report, dissertation or artefact handed in at the end of Year 12 or Year 13.

The EPQ allows students to lead their own projects. Students get to plan and carry out research on a topic that they've chosen and isn't covered by their other qualifications. They can take inspiration from something touched on in class or something personal and unrelated to their studies. They then use this research to produce a written report and, in the case of practical projects, an artefact or a production.

Why it is useful:

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is popular with students and teachers alike. It provides an opportunity for students to extend their abilities beyond their sixth form course of study, stand out and prepare for university or their future career. This qualification helps students develop and demonstrate their project management skills and provides opportunities for extended writing, both of which are highly valued for progression to higher education and employment. Students can tailor their project to fit their individual needs and aspirations with the agreement of their assigned supervisor within the college. 

The EPQ is also useful because:

• It’s worth half an A-Level (28 UCAS points).
• It’s recognised by universities and employers.
• Many universities make lower offers to students undertaking an EPQ.