Overview

The EPQ is an opportunity for students to research a topic of their choice, either related to their personal interests or course of academic study. Students are also required, with appropriate supervision, to; (i) draft a title and aims of the project for formal approval, (ii) plan, research and carry out the project, (iii) deliver a presentation to a non-specialist audience (iv) provide evidence of all stages of project development and production for assessment. The EPQ is marked according to 4 assessment objectives: Management, Resources, Development and Realisation and Evaluation. The taught programme involves 30 learning hours, delivered in 1 hour sessions, once a week. Students are then expected to independently spend at least a further 60 hours of study. Skills that are specifically developed through EPQ include; Decision Making, Problem Solving, Research Methods, Critical Thinking – Analysis, Synthesis, Evaluation, Presentation and Communication. Students use primary and secondary methods such as questionnaires and surveys as well as accessing books and articles from academic sources.

KS5 Intent Statement

This
is an enrichment course that aims to equip students with the independent skills
to prepare them for future academic and professional research and report
writing. Students will need to dedicate two-three hours a week to their EPQ
outside of their lesson time to ensure they can successfully complete their
EPQ.

Qualification Details

Exam Board: AQA
Qualification Title: Level 3 Extended Project Qualification
Qualification Specification Code: 7993
Qualification Webpage: Click here to visit the AQA webpage for the specification.

Entry Requirements

Grade 6 or above in English Language or Literature.

What will I study in this qualification?

·         Choosing an area of interest

·         Drafting a title and aims of the project for formal approval by the centre

·         Plan, research and carry out the project

·         Delivering a presentation to a non-specialist audience

·         Providing evidence of all stages of project development and production for assessment.

Possible Career Paths

Research and report writing skills are enhanced with the qualification. “It’s hard to imagine a career where the skills learnt in the EPQ.