What does completing an EPQ offer students?

The EPQ offers students the chance to pursue their own academic interests. It is highly regarded by universities due to the development of research and management skills during the project. Students also develop their ability to think critically, make decisions, read complex information, evaluate arguments and present information confidently. It is useful to students studying any combination of A-Levels and is excellent in supporting university applications.

How is the course run?

Students can choose to complete an EPQ in Enrichment time. They will have regular sessions with a supervisor every week, who will support them through key skills such as referencing as well as helping students to monitor their progress and acting as a sounding board for ideas. In addition to this, students will need to manage their own time to undertake research and write up their reports.

What does the EPQ consist of?

All students must complete a logbook on Project Q to explain how they have made decisions and managed their project. Students are also strongly encouraged to keep an evaluative source log to show their research. Students will also need to write up their research either as a 5000 word report, or to produce an artefact with a 1000+ word report. They will present their findings to a small group as part of their EPQ evidence.

What topics can EPQs cover?

EPQs can be taken on any topic! The ideal project combines academic weight with student interest and can help show interest in future university courses. Through discussion with their supervisor, students will choose a question to explore through research. Questions need to be evaluative and have an element of debate. If students choose to produce an artefact, this must have a clear purpose and evaluative process.

Example questions:

"Should the UK jury system be abolished?"

"To what extent does the gut microbiome account for the progression of Parkinson's Disease?"

"To what extent does the portrayal of female characters in Shakespeare’s comedies conform to the patriarchy of the time or challenge it?"

AQA Specification