Thornleigh Sixth Form Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

Completing an EPQ is an opportunity for students to explore interests, skills and subjects outside and beyond A Level courses to give students the competitive edge in applications and interviews for universities, apprenticeships and professional careers.

Students will plan, research, create and present a piece of work that they can confidently discuss in their personal statement and university, apprenticeship and professional interviews to show their particular interest and experience of the subject. Through the Production Log, students keep track of meetings with their mentor and how they have responded to problems they have encountered.

The reflective aspects of the project are crucial as the EPQ allows students to develop skills in research and project management that they do not often have the opportunity to refine during traditional A Level courses.

Entry Requirements

The EPQ is open to all students once they have enrolled into Thornleigh Sixth Form. Students will do an EPQ in addition to their other 3 A Level / BTEC subjects.

The EPQ will be introduced and launched to Year 12 students in October. To be successful on this course you must be prepared to work independently. Enthusiasm, self-motivation and a passion for your chosen topic are essential. After an initial expression of interest the cohort will meet at a convenient, agreed time in the week for the taught element of the course.

What will I Study?

The EPQ will be based on a topic chosen by the student and agreed by the centre. There will be some taught skills, led by a supervisor, including planning guidance, question formulation, time management, identifying suitable sources, referencing, plagiarism and presenting.

As this is an independent project, the student will lead the development of their own project.

Which exam board is used and how will I be assessed?

The exam board used is AQA.

Click here to access the exam board webpage for this specification.

You will be assessed on how well you identify and use resources, carry out your research, develop your ideas to realise an outcome and then reflect on the outcome and the process.
AO1: Manage (20%)
AO2: Use resources (20%)
AO3: Develop and Realise (40%)
AO4: Review (20%)

You will be required to complete and submit a production log along with your finished piece (5000 word written report or an artefact).

Where could this subject take me?

Many universities make reduced offers to students taking EPQ alongside A-level qualifications, including prestigious Russell Group universities such as University of Leeds, University of Sheffield, University of Leicester, University of Bath, University of Southampton and University of Bristol.

“The skills that students develop through the Extended Project are excellent preparation for university-level study. As a research-intensive university, The University of Manchester is very supportive of the skills the Extended Project encourages learners to develop. We have been involved in working with local schools and colleges since the Extended Project Qualification was first piloted.” Manchester University

“The University very much values the Extended Project and its role in preparing students for a successful higher education experience. In highly selective areas preference may be given to students with A-levels, who also offer the Extended Project for entry.” Glasgow University

“We value the skills of research and independent learning that the Extended Project is designed to develop. Your offer may be varied as a result, in recognition of the level of study skills you will have developed.” Newcastle University

How can I get ahead in this subject

Complete the following MOOC: How to Succeed in Your EPQ: the Nuts and Bolts of Completing Your Project. In this online course you will explore reasons to do an EPQ, the research process and assessment criteria, and get practical advice on time management and doing your EPQ presentation.