Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

Course Description

The EPQ is an additional qualification that allows you to develop a topic or area that interests you, and provides you with an opportunity to research a subject that might not be available through other qualifications.

Throughout your EPQ journey you will be able to develop independent research, project management skills, as well as developing academic skills that will help alongside your studies both at college and beyond in higher education or the workplace.

EPQ is offered to students towards the end of their first year continuing into their second year, with masterclass sessions on researching their ideas, and followed up with students attending one session per week from September to March with an assigned EPQ Supervisor. The sessions enable students to work in a group or individually with their EPQ supervisor. The sessions cover project management, academic writing, research and presenting their findings. Topics include: using project Q, note taking, time management, collecting data, ethical considerations, critical thinking, understanding the assessment criteria, academic writing, and effective presentation skills with tips for improving verbal communication skills.

The EPQ Supervisor monitors progress through the research, writing and presentation of your final project. During the EPQ sessions students share ideas, reflect upon their background reading and discuss key ideas.

Completing an EPQ encourages the development of a range of academic skills of which are really helpful with progression to university and employment. The University of Leeds and the University of Southampton have highlighted the impact of EPQ on the following skills:

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Completing an EPQ demonstrates your ability to carry out independent research and a level of commitment that universities and employers look for. Students who complete the EPQ are often at a distinct advantage in their personal statements and university interviews and can help you to stand out.

Ideal for students considering university and degree apprenticeships

5,000 word essay or Artefact with a 1,000 word essay, presentation, and completion of Project Q records.

There are several opportunities throughout the EPQ programme each year to enhance research knowledge and skills, such as:

The EPQ Learner Conference provides the opportunity to sit in sessions delivered by the University of Huddersfield on Critical Thinking, Critical Reading & Critical Writing, the University of Southampton on how to shape a research question, planning, conducting, evaluating research and referencing and Being an Effective Researcher sessions by ASFC EPQ Supervisors.

鈥楽hut Up and Write鈥� sessions 鈥� provide an opportunity to attend dedicated sessions on a Wednesday and Thursday to focus without distractions on writing goals, with time and space to progress on EPQ project work.

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