Extended Project Qualification (Level 3)
Introduction
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) gives students the opportunity to produce an in-depth project on a subject of their choosing, and is designed to develop independent learning skills. The Extended Project assesses a student’s ability to plan, carry out, report on and evaluate a project. It is a student-led enquiry based mode of learning, designed to stretch and challenge.
Students can either choose to produce a full written research report of approximately 5000 words or an artefact and shorter supporting written report (minimum 1000 words).
Facilities
As a large component of the course is developing research skills, most of the teaching is delivered in a classroom with IT facilities and internet access. Students also have access during these times to the school’s library facilities to make full use of all available resources.
Curriculum
The EPQ is an A Level AS qualification, providing valuable UCAS points for University entry.
The AQA Specification (Level 3) is followed and students are required to:
- Choose a topic to study
- Complete a Production Log to document the project process
- Plan, research and carry out their project
- Prepare and deliver a 'live' presentation on the outcome to a specified audience
The EPQ offers opportunities for students to:
- Have a significant input into the choice and design of their project
- Develop and improve their own learning and performance as critical, reflective and independent learners
- Develop and apply decision-making and, where appropriate, problem-solving skills
- Develop and extend their planning, research, critical thinking, analysis, synthesis, evaluation and presentation skills
- Develop and apply skills creatively, demonstrating initiative and enterprise
- Use their learning experiences to support their personal aspirations for higher education and career development
General
The EPQ offers students a unique opportunity to develop essential skills for higher education and the work-place, in a subject area of their own choice. It will provide challenge to stretch each student's abilities. In Y9 the EPQ is offered as an after school class to a selected number of Gifted and Talented pupils who are considered to have the potential to achieve high levels of academic achievement. It requires commitment and an impeccable work ethic to keep up with the demands of the course, but students attain high grades and find it helps in the acquisition of research and planning skills.
Staff
Please click on the link below for an up-to-date list of staff:
