As part of the Core Curriculum in the Sixth Form many students opt for the EPQ. The project allows each student to embark on a largely self-directed and self-motivated project. Students must choose a topic, plan, research and develop their idea and decide on their finished product.

They will be timetabled with an experienced teacher who will supervise the process through Year 12. The end product (usually a 5,000 word report/essay) will be completed in the summer term of Year 12, followed by a presentation.

The EPQ is a highly valued qualification, recognised and supported by the leading Universities. It helps Sixth Formers develop time management, independent learning and research skills - all of which will be crucial at University.

 

The EPQ is graded A*-E (In 2021 62% scored an A*/A and 86% scored an A*/B)

Many students have University offers lowered with a good grade for their EPQ.

 

EPQ is very popular with Universities

 

"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." 

                                                                                              -University of Cambridge

"The University recognises that some A level students may also choose to offer the Extended Project. In such cases, some admissions tutors may make two alternative offers, one of which involves success in the Extended Project (for example, either AAA at A level or AAB at A level plus Extended Project)."

                                                                                         -University of Bristol

What do the students think?

“Overall the experience was very worthwhile, and I learnt many key skills along the way. How to manage my time and how to reference properly. It was also of great interest to me because I chose a topic I love.”

“It helps prepare for the next stage of learning as well as improving vital skills required for University.”

“It allows you to investigate a subject that really interests you (no other school project I've done had such a wide scope for topics). It also gives you an experience of university style work (dissertations) but in a 'safe' school environment with supervisors and other teachers readily on hand for support.”

“EPQ has taught me how to search for credible and reliable information, allowing me to further my research into an area I wouldn’t have had the chance to look in to otherwise. I have gained the confidence to present my findings to a group.”