The EPQ is a level 3 certificate, an equivalent level of study to half of an A level qualification, and involves extended autonomous work to a total of 90 guided learning hours and a 30-hour taught programme. In the taught programme you will learn project management skills, presentation methods, research methods and planning techniques. The completed project can develop and extend from one or more of the pupil’s study areas or from an area of personal interest or activity outside their main programme of study. Each pupil works closely with a supervisor who will oversee, guide and facilitate their learning throughout and assess their achievement based upon thorough knowledge of the pupil’s autonomous work. Whilst many pupils will opt to write an extended essay of approximately 5,000 words, they may also create an ‘artefact’ which can be an object, a performance, a presentation or an event. Artefact projects are supported by a written explanation of around 1000 words.