An EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) is a sixth-form qualification that involves students choosing a topic, carrying out research, creating a report (or ‘product’ and report) and delivering a presentation.
There are several types of EPQ – students can write a research-based report, put on an event like a charity fundraiser, make something such as a piece of art or model or put on a performance such as a musical. Other options include producing a piece of creative writing or multimedia. But although the choices are wide and varied, students must show that it is academically useful, either relating to their current course of study or future career.
A research-based project involves writing a dissertation (usually 5,000 words); alternatives are backed up with a 1,000 word report. The final stage is a 10-15 minute presentation to a group of non-specialists about your topic. Students are expected to spend around 120 hours on their EPQ - although some take more time, others less. Students can expect support and guidance from a supervisor (normally a teacher) and most do their research in the summer holidays following year 12 and complete the project in the first term of year 13.
EPQs are currently graded A* to E and worth half an A level (up to 28 UCAS points). An A* in the EPQ is worth 28 UCAS points, an A 24, B 20, C 16, D 12 and an E 8.
EPQs are offered by AQA, Edexcel, OCR and WJEC, and although the marking schemes vary, this is a general guide to the grading breakdown:
20% - Project planning and time management: how you use the time and resources available
20% - Using resources and research skills: how you collect and use information
40% - Developing an idea and producing an outcome: how you plan and create the project outcome
20% - Evaluation and presentation: your reflection on the project process and communication of the project to others
An HPQ (Higher Project Qualification) is similar to an EPQ but is a level 2 qualification available for younger pupils in year 9 and 10 to do as preparation for their GCSEs and as a stepping stone to the EPQ. As with the EPQ, students doing an HPQ are expected to develop research skills, keep a production log, give a presentation on their research and evaluate the process. An HPQ is graded A* to C and is expected to take around 60 hours. Some schools use the HPQ as part of their gifted and talented programme at GCSE level to push more able students beyond their mainstream subjects.
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