The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) offers Sixth Form students the opportunity to study a topic of their choice in depth. It is a free-standing qualification and its purpose is to add a further dimension to Sixth Form studies and to stretch and challenge. It is widely welcomed by universities, with some altering entry requirements for those with a high grade in this qualification. One of the key features of the EPQ is its flexibility, as students are required to produce a substantial piece of work, which can take the form of a research paper, an extended essay, or even a creative project. You can choose to study an EPQ alongside three other subjects.

The EPQ allows students to embark on largely self-directed projects. By taking responsibility for the choice and design of an individual project (or an individual role in a group project) students:

• Become more critical, reflective and independent learners
• Develop and apply decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Increase their planning, research, analysis, synthesis, evaluation and presentation skills
• Learn to apply new technologies confidently
• Demonstrate creativity, initiative and enterprise.

The Extended Project Qualification is undertaken towards the end of Year 12 and during Year 13.  The EPQ leads to the equivalent of half an A-Level. It allows students to develop their personal interests on a topic they feel genuinely passionate about. It is also a fantastic opportunity to improve the independent research and learning skills that are highly valued by universities and employers. The end result can be a journal, a model, a film, recording or performance or a presentation and a written report of between 1000 and 5000 words.