Why study EPQ?

The EPQ allows you to personalise your learning in a way that no other qualification can offer. You choose an area of study that interests you; past studies have included the renaissance period in music; the physics of the ballet point shoe; the emergence of social campaigning on Instagram; and healthcare as a human right. It might be inspired by something you’ve studied in year 12, but could equally be sparked by something you’ve read or watched or listened to. Most student love the process of learning more about something they care about and benefit from the skills development an EPQ offers that sets you up for university or working life ahead. It is the equivalent of an AS qualification in UCAS tariff value.

What will I study over the two years?

• 120 guided learning hours throughout the Autumn and Spring Terms of Year 13.
• 30 hours of taught ‘skills content’ including research skills; ICT skills; project management skills; the format and structure of accepted academic forms of research report; referencing, the evaluation of sources and the prevention of plagiarism; and presentation skills.
• Fortnightly supervision meetings with a member of staff.
• Independent study commitment (approximately 3-4 hours per week).

What makes a good EPQ student?

You need to be thriving in your main studies to be eligible for a place on this course.

You need to be self motivated, as you are the person who drives the research.

How will I be assessed?

Students will:

• Choose an area of interest (this can be anything at all that you want to understand better, know more about, but it will not be something you study explicitly in your other qualifications).
• Draft a title and aims of the project for formal approval by the centre.
• Plan, research and carry out the project.
• Deliver a presentation to a non-specialist audience
• Provide evidence of all stages of project development and production for assessment.

Where could the EPQ take me?

Want to show an employer that you understand what the most interesting developments in the industry are?

Want to stand out as a student who is genuinely interested in the field you will study at uni, beyond what’s in the text books?

Keen to produce a piece of art, a podcast, a website that is innovative and relevant right now?

In an increasingly competitive culture the EPQ can offer you these opportunities and could help you stand out from the crowd. The EPQ is well respected by universities who admire the level of independent study that a successful outcome requires; it helps you to develop those skills that are essential to undergraduate success. For those not planning to go to university the EPQ can be a great way to demonstrate to potential employers or apprenticeship providers that you have drive and genuine commitment to a profession or industry.

What are the entrance requirements?

Grade 4 in English and Maths. A positive report from your Year 12 teachers on how well placed you are to take on extra commitments.

If you have any questions about our Extended Project Qualification please email Mr Withell swithell@oriel.w-sussex.sch.uk, who would be very happy to answer any questions.