About this course
This course is ideal for students who want to develop the independent learning skills required for university and future employment. The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) allows students to explore a topic of personal interest in greater depth while taking responsibility for the design, planning and completion of an individual project.
The EPQ provides an excellent opportunity for students to demonstrate curiosity, creativity and initiative. Learners can choose a project linked to their future career aspirations, university subject choices or personal interests, allowing them to develop expertise in an area beyond their current studies.
Throughout the course, students become more confident independent learners by developing advanced research, analysis and evaluation skills. They learn how to locate reliable information, manage a long-term project, consider different viewpoints and communicate their findings effectively.
This qualification is particularly valuable for students considering competitive university courses, as it demonstrates commitment, self-motivation and the ability to undertake independent academic work. The skills developed through the EPQ closely reflect the expectations of higher education and help students prepare for future study.
What will you learn?
The EPQ allows students to choose and complete an independent project on a subject area of their own interest. Students will follow a structured project process and develop skills needed for successful independent study.
Topics and activities include:
Choosing and developing an individual project idea.
Planning a project timeline and setting achievable goals.
Conducting independent research using appropriate sources.
Evaluating the reliability and usefulness of information.
Developing critical thinking and analytical skills.
Producing a final project outcome, which may include:
A research-based written report
A creative production
An artefact or practical outcome
Writing a detailed project report explaining the process, decisions and conclusions.
Delivering a presentation on the completed project.
Maintaining a production log documenting planning, progress and reflection.
Students will also develop confidence in using digital tools and new technologies to support research, production and presentation.
Who is this course aimed at?
This course is aimed at students who want to challenge themselves through independent study and develop skills beyond the traditional classroom environment. It is suitable for learners who enjoy exploring questions in depth, researching topics and creating their own project outcomes.
The EPQ is particularly beneficial for students who are considering higher education and want to demonstrate their ability to work independently. It supports learners who wish to strengthen their university applications by showing commitment, curiosity and academic ambition.
Students who enjoy taking ownership of their learning, solving problems and developing their own ideas will benefit most from this qualification. It is ideal for those who want to become more confident, reflective and self-directed learners while developing skills that will support future study and employment.
Students should have achieved a GCSE Grade 6 in English, with an average points score of 6.0 or above. This course is suited to students who are motivated, organised and able to work independently. Learners should be prepared to take responsibility for planning, researching and completing an individual project based on a topic of their choice.
Assessment takes place through coursework only. Students complete an independent project and are assessed through the final project product, written report, presentation and completed production log. The assessment focuses on students’ ability to plan effectively, carry out research, evaluate information and present their findings clearly.
Students will develop skills in:
Research and Academic Skills
Independent research
Source evaluation
Referencing
Essay writing
Analysis and synthesis of information
Project Management Skills
Planning and organisation
Setting goals and managing deadlines
Decision-making
Problem-solving
Independent working
Communication Skills
Presentation skills
Communicating ideas clearly
Evaluating and reflecting on outcomes
Using digital tools confidently
These skills are highly valued by universities and employers and provide excellent preparation for further study.
Progression routes
The Extended Project Qualification is an additional qualification that supports progression into higher education and future careers. It provides extra UCAS points and can strengthen university applications by demonstrating independent learning, research ability and commitment to a chosen area of study.
Possible progression benefits include:
Supporting applications for competitive university courses
Preparing students for degree-level independent research
Developing skills required for dissertations and academic projects
Demonstrating initiative and commitment to employers and universities
The EPQ complements a wide range of future pathways and is particularly valuable for students who want to stand out when applying for higher education or professional opportunities.
Related Courses
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