EPQ is a standalone qualification that is equivalent to half an A Level, it is designed to extend and develop your abilities beyond the A-level curriculum and prepare you for university or your future career. The EPQ is different to other courses because it enables you to undertake independent research in a topic that you find interesting, that is not covered by your other subjects. EPQ enhances your study skills and provides you with the experience of independent learning, which is characteristic of university study. Therefore, it is highly valued by universities and can help you gain a competitive edge when applying to university by: • giving you UCAS points • reducing the level of an offer • giving your application preference • providing a focus for valued content within your personal statement • providing a major focus for interview discussion. This course is offered towards the end of your first year and continued into your second year. The EPQ allows you to lead your own project, you will research a subject of your choice, which you will then develop into either a 5000-word report or an artifact. Alongside your research, you will document your progress in a production log and you will communicate your findings in a presentation at the end of the course. You will attend weekly sessions outside of your usual lesson time where you will be taught the skills necessary to complete the project. In addition to this, you will complete online courses and have regular meetings with a Supervisor. The programme of study will involve you: • choosing an area of interest • drafting a project title • drafting aims of the project • planning, researching and carrying out the project • providing evidence of all stages of project production (Production Log) • delivering a presentation to a specified audience