Extended Project Qualification

All Sixth Form pupils undertake an EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) alongside their A Levels. The EPQ is a year-long independent research project that concludes with either a 5,000-word essay or the production of an artefact (such as an artwork, film, play, script or story) and a written report. You have total freedom over the topic of your EPQ: you will investigate an area that lies far beyond the confines of A Level specifications and often – though not always – related to your chosen university course.

Central to the EPQ is research: you are taught how to use academic journals and online databases, how to cite references correctly, how to collect data from questionnaires, and how to write-up findings formally without the risk of plagiarism. The EPQ is equivalent to half an A Level and it is viewed favourably by universities worldwide, who hugely value the skills of research, critical analysis and self-discipline that it develops and that are crucial for success at undergraduate level. Many UK universities make applicants lower conditional A Level offers if they also complete an EPQ to a high standard.

You are supported in undertaking an EPQ through a series of taught skills sessions – focusing on time management, project organisation, and research and presentation skills – delivered by our Head of EPQ. You will also have an EPQ mentor, a member of teaching staff, who will meet with you regularly and mark your final project.

Recent EPQs have explored gender bias in the wrongful conviction of women in the US, the use of generative AI to enhance cyberattacks and the impact of music therapy on young people with ADHD.