EPQ

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is an optional Level 3 qualification that allows students to independently research a topic of their choice.

It’s ideal for those preparing for university, apprenticeships, or careers where independent thinking and project management are valued.

“Completing my EPQ gave me the opportunity to delve deeper into a topic which genuinely really interested me. It’s unlike normal teacher lead tasks, giving you complete autonomy and independence on how you research your subject and what direction your essay takes. I’ve developed so many vital skills and gained invaluable experience which I can utilise in the future.” EPQ Student, 2024

Key Features

• UCAS Points: Worth up to 28 points (equivalent to half an A-Level).
  
• Flexible Topics: Students choose any subject area of interest.
  
• Project Options: Write a 5,000-word report or create an artefact with a supporting report.
  
• Skills Development: Encourages research, planning, critical thinking, and presentation skills.
  
• Assessment: Based on project management, use of resources, final outcome, and reflection.
  
  

What is the process of completing an EPQ?

• Proposal & Approval: Submit a project idea for approval.
  
• Production Log: Maintain a detailed log throughout the process.
  
• Supervisor Support: Guided by a school mentor.
  
• Final Presentation: Present and discuss findings with an audience
  
• Process over outcome: Completed over 120 hours, 30 from taught skills and the rest made up from independent work.

How is EPQ delivered at Finborough?

• Towards the end of the Autumn Term, Year 12 students are invited to complete a 3 week Future Learn Course, run by the University of Bath. 
  
• Students commit to a one hour supervisor meeting once a week for taught skills lessons and project support.
  
• Projects are typically drafted by the start of Year 13, with the option to submit in November or May.
  
• The EPQ logbook is managed using a platform called Project Q.

Previous examples of EPQ Titles

Extended Project Qualifications can be written about anything! You will see from the list below that past projects have been hugely varied spanning topics about education, AI, politics, culture, economics and sport.

“I chose a topic I genuinely loved and wouldn’t have been able to study in my A-Levels. It reminded me why I enjoy learning.” EPQ Student, 2024

“An interactive educational resource to overcome misconceptions in Year 11 equilibria”

“The Ethics of Predictive AI in Stock Trading”

“The Influence Of Women In UK Politics: Case Studies Of Female Politicians In Foreign Policy”

“The Economic Impact of K-POP on South Korea’s Fashion and Beauty Industries: Driving Economic Growth, Consumer Trends, and Export Success”

“Why does antibiotic resistance continue to spread, how does it affect our global health & are our strategies enough to tackle the crisis?”

“Evaluating the macroeconomic and social impacts of COVID-19 on the UK Economy”

“Developing scrummaging ability of U15-U20 rugby union players”