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About the course:
About the course:
Exam Board: AQA
Subject contact: Emma Stubbs
What is the EPQ?
It is a free-standing qualification equivalent to half an AS Level (half an A Level) and it is graded A* to E. You choose, plan and design a project.
You get to explore a further aspect of an A- level subject that you are already studying, or choose a topic that you have a personal interest in.
The finished project can be a purely written report, a performance, a piece of art, a community project, a DVD or a piece of computer software.
The project is finally presented to a non-specialist audience.
Advantages to the student:
It is great for your University application and provides lots to write about in your personal statement
It will be also be a great discussion point during job or university interviews
An extra AS level qualification
Great for study skills development
Your chance to pursue a passion and get a qualification for it!
How is the EPQ taught?
You will attend regular sessions with a supervisor who will develop the necessary skills required to help you complete your project. Students are encouraged to also develop these independently using online using university resources and courses. The project is completed independently by students.
Examples of EPQ project titles:
Who was the greatest Tudor monarch?
Is hosting the Olympics worth it?
Has the concept of childhood changed
during the Victorian period?
Why does the UK have Europe’s teenage
pregnancy rate?
Assessment of strategies for dealing with
dyslexia
The future of virtual reality.
“The skills that students develop through the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are excellent preparation for university-level study. Students can refer to the EPQ in their UCAS personal statements and at interview to demonstrate some of the qualities that universities are looking for.”
University of Manchester
Units of study:
Units of study:
Assessment Objective 1
Assessment Objective 1
AO1 – Manage (20%)
Choose an appropriate topic and set clear project objectives.
Plan your project effectively, including timelines and resources.
Show evidence of independent organisation and time management.
Assessment Objective 2
Assessment Objective 2
AO2 – Use Resources (20%)
Research a wide range of relevant and reliable sources.
Select, analyse and interpret information effectively.
Demonstrate clear understanding of your topic and its context.
Assessment Objective 3
Assessment Objective 3
AO3 – Develop and Realise (40%)
Develop ideas and apply your knowledge and skills.
Produce your final outcome (e.g. essay, artefact, performance, or investigation).
Show creativity, problem-solving and critical thinking in your work.
Assessment Objective 4
Assessment Objective 4
AO4 – Review (20%)
Evaluate your process and final product.
Reflect on what went well and what you would do differently next time.
Demonstrate what you’ve learned from completing the project.
Our curriculum to deliver the EPQ at Leigh Academy Hugh Christie:
Our curriculum to deliver the EPQ at Leigh Academy Hugh Christie:
Year 12
Year 12
Unit 1 – Project, Ideas, Exploration
What is the EPQ and how can I prepare?
Explore initial project ideas and possible questions.
Learn how to use the Production Log to record progress.
Unit 2 – Planning and Organisation
What is the project process?
How can I design a clear, realistic plan?
Develop a timeline and decide how to apply your plan effectively.
Unit 3 – Research: Primary & Secondary
How can I find and evaluate information?
What research methods best suit my project?
Learn how to use credible sources and design your own research strategy.
Unit 4 – Ethics, Reliability and Validity
What ethical issues should I consider in my research?
Is my information accurate, valid and trustworthy?
How do I ensure my project is credible?
Unit 5 – Reflection and Mid-Project Review
What gaps are there in my research?
Is my plan still working effectively?
How can I refine my title or focus based on what I’ve learned so far?
Unit 6 – Planning and Analysing
How can I plan and structure a strong argument?
What’s the difference between description and analysis?
Develop a clear, coherent essay or artefact structure.
Unit 7 – Referencing
How should my report be formatted and referenced?
Learn how to avoid plagiarism through correct citation methods.
Understand academic writing and presentation standards.
Year 13
Year 13
Unit 8 – Presentation and Reflection
How can I present my findings effectively?
How can I engage my audience and explain my work clearly?
Practice your presentation for your final assessment.
Unit 9 – Evaluation
How can I evaluate the process and outcome of my project?
What are the strengths and weaknesses of my work?
Reflect on your progress and identify what you would improve next time.
In Year 13, students bring together all the research, planning, and analysis they’ve completed to finalise their Extended Project Qualification. During the first half of the autumn term, they refine their written report or artefact, ensuring it meets academic and ethical standards, before preparing to share their findings. By November of Year 13, students are ready to present their completed project to an audience of staff and peers. This presentation allows them to demonstrate their knowledge, explain their research process, and reflect on what they have learned throughout their EPQ journey.
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