This is an opt-in option that is available for all members of Year 12. It will give you a real opportunity for university style learning. It is designed specifically to go beyond the A level specifications and has strong backing from the top universities. It gives a significant boost to your future UCAS application.

The EPQ is an opportunity to do a project in a subject area in which you are interested. It provides a context for developing critical thinking and project management skills. It assesses your ability to plan, carry out, report on and evaluate a project.

There are 5 key principles that make the EPQ special.

• it requires independent research and learning to extend your studies.
• the path of study is chosen by you in negotiation with your Supervisor.
• the project work must be planned, delivered and presented to an audience who will ask questions on the project process and conclusions.
• your self motivation and strong organisational skills will be key – some essential research skills will be taught
• your work is monitored and mentored by the Supervisor.

A successfully completed project will demonstrate beyond doubt to universities your independent research and study skills.

The process involves…

1. Choosing a topic or area of interest that will form the individual project.

2. Identifying and drafting the main aims and objectives of the project.

3. Planning, researching and carrying out the project.

4. Providing evidence of all stages of the process in the form of a personal journal or log book.

5. Writing a report of between 1000 and 5000 words.

6. Delivering a presentation about the project that is appropriate for a non-specialist audience including answering questions about the project from the audience.

7. Reviewing and reflecting on the whole project process.

Timing

The initial teaching starts in the September of Year 12. You will begin to develop the skills that you will need to demonstrate in the final EPQ project.

These are taught in university style seminars and you will learn about

• elements of argument
• language of reasoning
• credibility of evidence
• assessment and analysis of arguments
• how to develop your own argument

You will be guided through the decision making processes needed to formulate a project area and working title for your report by your EPQ Supervisor. The EPQ formally starts in the February of Year 12 with the submission of your working title and your main research will take place during the Summer Vacation. When you return in September of Year 13, you will have your mid-project review in preparation for your presentation in November.

Assessment of the EPQ.

The EPQ is graded from A* to E. The Assessment Objectives (AOs) are outlined below.

AO1: Manage (20%)

• identify the topic
• identify project aims and objectives
• produce a project plan
• complete the work applying organisational skills and strategies to meet stated objectives

AO2: Use resources (20%)

• obtain and select from a variety of resources
• analyse data
• apply information relevantly
• demonstrate understanding of appropriate links and complexities of the topic

AO3: Develop and Realise (40%)

• problem-solving
• decision-making
• creative thinking
• to achieve planned outcomes

AO4: Review (20%)

• communication skills
• convey and present evidenced outcomes and conclusions
• evaluate own learning and performance

For more information, please contact Mr Scott on mscott@stmaryscambridge.co.uk