Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

The EPQ is an A-level qualification designed to extend and develop students' abilities beyond the A-level syllabus. Many universities make lower A-level offers to students undertaking an EPQ.

The EPQ:

• can be taken as an extension of other Level 3 qualifications or vocational qualifications
• is worth half an A-level (28 UCAS points)
• is recognised by universities and employers.

At Sedbergh School the Extended Project Qualification is delivered in Year 12. Pupils choose a topic of their choice (within appropriate safeguarding and ethical boundaries) and establish a working title, plan and research to produce a 5000 word essay. With a programme of taught content including research and planning skills, referencing and critical writing, the qualification offers significant preparation for Higher and University education.

Pupils are introduced to the EPQ at the end of Year 11 with on-line learning and preparation. Taught content is through early lectures, and weekly lessons in the Michaelmas and Lent Terms. Pupils have an individual Supervisor to guide their project providing feedback and review at regular intervals. Supervisors meet with their small group of pupils (usually less then 10) on a weekly basis from November to March. This is a process-led qualification which is assessed accordingly on the basis of the three items produced:

• Essay
• Presentation
• Production log

The EPQ qualification is valuable for those pupils seeking a university course in which they can extend relevant learning and achieve a potential reduction in their university offer. For other pupils, the EPQ qualification offer UCAS points.