The strongest applicants are those who can link their extracurricular activities to their proposed course of study.

Success cannot simply be measured by exam results. If we expect our
students to be successful, contributing adults, then we need them to
develop a range of skills beyond just their qualifications.
We offer students the opportunity to complete an Extended Project
Qualification (EPQ) on a topic of their choice.

An EPQ is a piece of work that allows students to study a topic in depth and
develop independent research and study skills. It requires a high level of
planning, preparation and research. The project should demonstrate
extension of the student’s knowledge and understanding beyond post-16
study.

What does an EPQ do for our students?

● Assists students with developing skills in academic research and
university style learning
● The EPQ is equivalent to half an A-Level (up to 28 UCAS points)

● Provides evidence for the Personal Statement and areas for
discussion during an interview
● Students may get a lower offer from universities if they get a high
grade in their EPQ
● Provides an opportunity for independent research/study

Competitive universities have indicated that completing an EPQ will
give students an advantage when applying for highly sought-after
courses. The Russell Group has indicated that a high grade in the EPQ
will be seen as a positive attribute when deciding between applicants
with similar levels of overall achievement.

The project can be either:

● A written report of 5000 words
● A written report of 1000 words plus one of the following: an
artefact, a recording of a performance or activity, a multimedia
presentation, a slide presentation or a photographic record

In addition to the above, each student must keep a production log and
present their project to an audience, about which they will be questioned.