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Extended Project Qualification

This will be launched in the Spring of Year 12 and cannot be selected before then.
EXAM BOARD: AQA
COURSE REQUIREMENTS: Students will need to have shown evidence of meeting expected standards in their A Level courses

Why choose the EPQ?
An EPQ is a research-based project undertaken on any topic of your choice. It can be a further extension of a subject being studied at A Level, a subject area the student wishes to study at university but which is not part of their school curriculum (e.g. medicine
or film studies), or simply an area of personal interest unrelated to their other studies. Thus an EPQ is a unique and exciting opportunity for students to manage their own learning and pursue intellectual interests beyond what the curriculum can offer.
 

Course Content:
The project itself can take several forms. In most cases the student will produce either a dissertation of approximately 5,000 words or a field/case study of a similar word length but which involves the collection, analysis and evaluation of data. It is also possible for the project to take the form of an artefact (e.g. a website, sculpture, film, working prototype) or a performance. Students are required to plan, research, develop and evaluate their project as well as support their work with a 1,500 – 3,000 word case report.
 

Career Value:
The EPQ is highly valued by leading universities because it fosters independent study skills in
students which help them successfully bridge the gap between A Level study and university education. For those looking to apply to particularly competitive Universities, the ability to talk about their EPQ can be a significant advantage in interview. The EPQ can also be valuable for those looking to pursue subjects and pathways outside of those covered by the core curriculum.
 

Enrichment Opportunities:
Students will be expected to identify their own research as part of the EPQ process and, as such, will access a number of enrichment opportunities independently.