What is EPQ?
It is a freestanding qualification designed to stretch and challenge students and is optional in Year 12.
You choose your own project which you can then explore in depth. The project could be an aspect of a subject you’re studying or a topic you have a personal interest in.
This level of choice and flexibility means you are engaged and motivated, and will gain valuable research and project management skills along the way.
Course content:
The EPQ is equivalent to 50% of an A Level and is assessed at A Level standard. It will develop and extend from one or more of your study areas and/or from an area of personal interest outside your main programme of study.
It is entirely flexible and will be based on a topic chosen by you. The final product can be equally flexible and can take the form of a 5000 word report (on any topic you can think of!) or an artefact. Artefacts can include:
- A piece of art (sculpture, painting etc)
- A piece of music
- A video (trailer / documentary / music video)
- A script or performance
- A short story or novella
- A magazine
- Literally anything!
If you choose an artefact, it must be accompanied by a 1000 word report, detailing your processes.
Your project can take the form of whatever is most suitable for the topic. The EPQ is recognised and valued highly by universities, as it will clearly demonstrate your ability to manage your own workload and study independently.
Entry requirements:
There are no formal entry requirements for this course. However, you must choose a topic that will hold your interest and ensure you are self-motivated.
Methods of study:
Delivery of the Extended Project Qualification will involve some teaching of the necessary skills, although much of the supervision and assessment will be on a one to one basis. The main focus of the project is on independent study and development of necessary study skills. In total, you will participate in approximately 120 guided learning hours to complete the project.
You are required, with appropriate supervision, to:
- Choose an area of interest
- Draft a title and aims of the project for formal approval
- Plan, research and carry out the project
- Produce a final report/artefact
- Deliver a presentation to a specified audience
- Provide evidence of all stages of project
Methods of assessment:
The EPQ is holistically assessed at final submission. The components of the project which contribute to the assessment are as follows:
- Final artefact and/or report
- Production Log
- Presentation
- Any other supporting evidence
“We welcome the introduction of the Extended Project and would encourage you to undertake one as it will help you develop independent study and research skills and ease the transition from school/college to higher education”.
Cambridge University