What is an EPQ anyway?
Students in the Sixth Form at RGS have an opportunity to explore, in depth, something that really interests them, outside the curriculum. This is called The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and is recognised and welcomed by all universities as excellent preparation for undergraduate study. The project might see them design an artefact, write a dissertation, put on a performance, produce an Art installation, organise an event, or carry out a scientific or fieldwork investigation. An EPQ is recognised by UCAS as half an A Level, being graded A*- E and is worth up to 70 UCAS points.
Completing an EPQ is likely to enhance Higher Education or job applications and will help students to stand out in both their Personal Statement and at interview.
The skills required to complete an EPQ are taught in weekly lessons and students have a chosen teacher as a personal supervisor. The focus is on independent learning, aimed at developing essential research, study and presentation skills, as well as higher order critical thinking.
Students from the current Upper Sixth shared their experiences of EPQ:
Lois Beaumont – “I have found that the skills such as academic writing and referencing will be invaluable for me as I go on to pursue a science course at university. My title of 'Does beetroot juice improve the performance of elite athletes?' allowed me to combine my love of Rowing with my passion for how the human body works and I found the whole research process interesting and enjoyable. I would recommend it strongly.”
Evan Goss – “My EPQ was focused on globalisation in Eastern Europe, in particular three countries, Albania, Bulgaria and Romania. I was very interested in this part of the world due to the numerous historical, economic and political aspects and this made for a fascinating project. The EPQ has taught me how to reference properly and construct longer essays, and this has prepared me very well for university and I now cannot wait to start!”
Mrs Sarah Cooper – Assistant Head of Sixth Form
