Extended Project Qualifications at Woodbridge School
Alongside A levels, many of our students at Woodbridge School choose to study an EPQ (Extended Project Qualification). The EPQ is highly regarded by many universities, offering students UCAS points equivalent to half a full A level; it can be referred to in personal statements and provides an interesting topic of conversation during interviews.
As competition increases for entrance to universities, students, now more than ever, are required to evidence skills that are desirable in any undergraduate; universities can include EPQ results in offers, lowering, for example, an offer of AAA to AAB with an A in EPQ.
Each student produces a 5000-word essay on a topic of their own choosing. The project requires evidence of planning, preparation, research and independent learning, and allows students to grow a useful range of study skills that can support and assist them throughout Sixth Form, university and life beyond study. Alongside this is the opportunity to develop and apply decision-making skills, problem-solving skills, initiative and presentation technique.
In terms of choosing a topic, students are encouraged to think of their own interests and passions, the environment around them, and organisations and activities they may be part of or support. Choosing an aspect of a subject that has intrigued or interested them, students are prompted to also consider how this topic might link with one or more of their other A levels.
Talking about the students’ recent work, Head of EPQ at Woodbridge School, Mr David Beasant, commented,
“Working independently, students produce a five-thousand-word essay, which they’ve taken time to research, plan and conceive. Recently, they’ve been presenting these to an audience of their fellow students and teachers. Tackling some really challenging debates of the world we live in today, the range of subjects is impressive and the talks incredibly well-attended and -received.”
He continued,
“From Ronnie sharing his thoughts on whether care homes are the future of elderly care, Georgie talking on the case for abortion of foetuses with aneuploidy, Rose’s discussion of the effects of miscarriage on relationships, to Millie’s exploration of the menstrual cycle’s effects on sporting performance, the breadth and depth of topics covered is vast, incredibly varied, informative and – certainly – hugely impressive.”
For further information about EPQs, as well as A levels at Woodbridge School, visit woodbridgeschool.org.uk/sixth-form/academic/.
