Introduction
The EPQ is an opportunity for students to flourish as independent, motivated and enterprising learners. Students will be offered the opportunity to complete an EPQ alongside their existing Sixth Form studies. They will get to plan and carry out research into a topic that they’ve chosen which can be an extension of their existing studies or a completely new area of personal interest to them. They then use this research to produce either a 5000-word written report or a shorter written report and an artefact. Towards the end of the course, students will also give a 10-minute presentation on their topic.
The EPQ is ideal for students who are thinking of applying to University, for an Apprenticeship or for work. The EPQ is worth half an A Level in terms of UCAS points and many universities make lower A-level offers to students undertaking an EPQ. For students applying for Apprenticeships or work researching an EPQ topic related to their future career will make them stand out at interview. For all students, doing an EPQ can lead to improved A level performance and develop important skills such as planning, researching, critical thinking and creativity.
Additional Learning Resources
Project Q: This is an online resource where students will be able to complete their Production Log. It offers a ‘reflective journal’ space where students can reflect on the EPQ process and record further information to help meet the assessment objectives. Project Q allows both the student and supervisor to access the Production Log, making it easier to provide constructive feedback and more efficient to meet deadlines.
Future Learn: This is an online platform that can support students with a number of academic courses, not just the EPQ. Universities and colleges upload online courses that help prepare students for A Levels and Higher Education. We encourage all our EPQ students to complete the ‘Developing Your Research Project’ delivered by the University of Southampton to further equip them with the skills required to succeed in the EPQ.
Teams: The course Teams page is where students can access the learning resources from the taught sessions and the student handbook with checklists for each submission point within the process.
Staff
Mrs R Buchan – Head of Department
