The Extended Project Qualification is a chance for you to carry out a piece of original research and create a project of your own choosing. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore a hobby, passion, or interest that you may not get to study in school normally, or extend your academic interest in the subjects you study at A-Level. The EPQ is highly respected by universities and employers and has benefits whether you are looking to apply to competitive academic courses such as medicine, to top universities like Oxford and Cambridge, or to degree level apprenticeship programmes and vocational courses.
Following your research, you will produce either an extended essay or an 'artefact' with a short written report. In the past we have had artefacts as varied as pieces of creative writing, videos, paintings, lectures, sports demonstrations, and more.
The EPQ is mostly based around 90 hours of independent research carried out in your own time, but you will also have some taught sessions once a week to give you the skills you need to excel in your project. You will also have regular supervision sessions with a member of staff to guide your planning, research, and production.
There are many benefits to taking an EPQ to enrich your sixth form experience and improve your school-leaving prospects:
- Helps develop key study and work skills from planning and time management to report writing and presentation skills;
- Has the same UCAS points as an AS Level (half an A-Level);
- Some universities will reduce your overall offer if you also have a high grade in an EPQ;
- Gives you an excellent example of what independent, university style research and work is like;
- Ensures you will be able to talk confidently about a piece of research you have expertise in at interviews for university courses;
- Provides a unique chance to develop your own interests, supported by your teachers.
If you would like to find out more information about the EPQ please email Mr Carr (acarr@priory.herts.sch.uk).