All Lower Sixth Form students embark on an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) alongside their A Level subjects, Games and Friday afternoon Activities. EPQ is a research-based project that is guided by a tutor but is student led.
Course Aims
The EPQ gives students the opportunity to develop skills in note taking, analysis, evaluation and referencing. It promotes independent learning, time management and project management – skills that are particularly valuable in preparation for university and working life. It also enables students to discover and cultivate personal interest and expertise in specific areas beyond the scope of A Level courses.
Course content
There are four distinct routes to complete an EPQ: 1. Dissertation, 2. Investigation, 3. Performance, and 4. Artefact. In all cases, students choose their own title, which must be in the form of a question.
The Dissertation is an extended report. It requires students to research the ‘story’ behind a question, so their question must allow them to explore historical, ethical and/or philosophical aspects of that question in depth, rather than simply summarise current understanding. The Dissertation EPQ draws heavily on skills of research, analysis, communication and argument, with the eventual goal that they learn to develop and defend their own point of view on a range of issues.
The Performance route may be an original piece of drama or dance or may be the presentation of a technical lecture. This route requires written evidence of substantial research, influences and background, as well as the performance itself. Students must practise and refine their scripted performance several times, in a well-documented cycle.
The creation of an Artefact (model, book, script, score, etc.) likewise demands significant evidence of research. Students must review and refine their artefact several times, in a documented cycle that many will recognise from GCSE Art or Design & Technology.
Assessment
All students work on their EPQ at home as well as in lesson time and are supported by a dedicated EPQ mentor in weekly tutorials, in which they review progress and are coached in the skills needed for successful completion of their Projects.
The outcomes of the research are completed by January of the Upper Sixth Form. All three routes require students to keep a reflective log of the development of their ideas and material progress, as well as a portfolio containing details of background research, evolution of the project, and reflective evaluation of the outcome. They complete the EPQ with a ten-minute oral presentation to a small group of students and two teacher-assessors.
The EPQ is a 100% coursework-based qualification (Non-Examination Assessment) and is marked and moderated within the School. There is no written examination. As a ‘Level 3 Qualification’, it is graded A*–E and is equivalent in size, status and UCAS points to half a full A Level. It provides solid evidence that students have a genuine passion for learning, so it is highly regarded by admissions tutors. In many leading university institutions, conditional offers are reduced if the EPQ is offered.