Sixth Form EPQ Course

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

Board:     AQA

Type:       Level 3 Project

School:    Sturminster Newton High School

Contact: Mr D Harris

Why complete an EPQ?

The EPQ offers students the chance to complete an independent research project on any topic of their choosing. It is worth half an A level and can be completed over one or two years alongside a 3 A level programme. Students are in small groups and are guided towards completion through weekly lessons with their supervisor. The EPQ can be used to pursue individual passions and curiosity, deepen and extend learning within a subject, bridge the gap between subjects or indeed pave the way to university study. We see that universities are increasingly making alternative offers for students with a good quality EPQ and using it as a means of differentiating between applicants for competitive courses.

What will I learn?

Students typically use the EPQ as an opportunity to further their knowledge and understanding of either something related to a course of study or something that they were unable to study at A level but retain a genuine interest in. Past projects include topics as diverse as “What led to the British defeat at Gallipoli?”, “Is stem cell research worth the controversy?”, “Is Social Media damaging to mental health?” and “Is climate change the biggest threat to the natural world?”. Students have taught themselves Italian, built model gliders and guitars, choreographed dance that explores living with schizophrenia…

What are the entry requirements?

EPQ is typically offered to students who have done well at GCSE as this is a good indicator of likely success on a challenging course. However, motivated and interested students are always welcome to discuss their ideas with Mr King if they wish to take the course.

How will I be assessed?

Students are able to complete the EPQ during Year 12 and make a submission in June (receiving results in the summer) or the November of Year 13 (receiving results in January). However, we find the best projects take time and benefit from the skills developed in Year 13 and as such most students submit either after Christmas of Year 13 or at Easter of the same year, receiving their results alongside their other A levels in August.

What do students do after studying for an EPQ?

An EPQ can be a real asset to university application as a growing number of universities will make a reduced offer to students with a good quality EPQ. We hear from admissions tutors that EPQ can be a useful means of differentiating between students with otherwise similar academic profiles. It can also be a great thing to discuss at interview in a range of contexts.

What are the enrichment opportunities?

We work closely with Southampton University in the delivery of the course. This involvement includes a range of face-to-face sessions from academic staff to support delivery of the taught skills element (for example, referencing, research skills and presenting). We have also enjoyed the opportunity of taking students to the main Hartley Library at the university to develop research skills and carry out research.