Extended Project (EPQ) (AQA)
Course Code: 7993
Course Information (AQA)
The EPQ is a Level Three Qualification which is graded A* to E. It is an excellent opportunity to develop your skills of independent research and to undertake a highly respected qualification which is valued by both employers and universities.
Course Requirements
Students should have at least 5 GCSEs graded 9 - 5 including English and Maths and can demonstrate clear motivation and enthusiasm for enrolling onto the EPQ programme.
The EPQ Process
The EPQ is your chance to undertake an independent research project on a topic of your choice. You can choose to present your final product in the form of a 5,000-word essay or an artefact, which could range from a portrait, a performance or an experiment. In your EPQ sessions you will carry out research in discussion with your supervisor and complete your project. You will present your project to an audience of peers and submit your full Production Log for moderation and submission to AQA.
Assessment Information
You will be assessed through the completion of your product and the submission of your Production Log which will be marked and moderated by the school and then sent to AQA for assessment. You will be expected to carry out extensive research and meet regularly with your supervisor to discuss your progress. At the end of the project you will present your work to your peers at a presentation evening which counts towards your overall assessment.
Teaching and Learning
You will have 30 hours of Taught Skills Sessions where you will learn the skills necessary for the successful completion of the EPQ. You will learn how to undertake effective research, how to manage your time and how to reference your research and how to present it. The rest of the time, you will be encouraged to undertake independent research that helps develop your project, with the help of your supervisor.
Transferable Skills
Students that successfully complete the EPQ demonstrate that they are capable of coping with the academic demands of further study at University. The EPQ also enables students to develop transferable skills such as public speaking, independent research, time management and critical thinking which are highly valued at University and in the workplace.