Study Skills

Course summary

As part of the Future Leaders programme, we offer the EPQ – the Extended Project Qualification. It is worth half the UCAS points of a full A Level (more points than an AS Level) and offers students the freedom to independently research an area of interest. This could lead to a 5,000-word dissertation or a 1,000-word report accompanied by an artefact. The EPQ is entirely optional as, apart from the taught skills element, it is an independent and self-directed project. Each student will, however, be allocated a supervisor who will be able to provide general guidance and advice. Students can use the EPQ to enhance their university application by researching a topic that is closely related to their chosen university course. For example, a recent Medical applicant chose to research the effectiveness of current methods for the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Alternatively, students can demonstrate breadth by choosing a topic that is entirely outside their subject area but is of personal interest: one example is the student who designed a computer animation teaching younger students basic programming skills. Both students were awarded top A* grades. The Extended Project Qualification allows pupils to decide their area of interest and set their research parameters. A qualification that requires real dedication and independence, the EPQ is an excellent bridge between the Sixth Form and self-directed study at university and is highly regarded by universities.