Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

• One-year course
• Edexcel ZP130
• 1 unit 
• 20 UCAS points at top level

The Level 3 Extended Project allows students to develop and extend their learning in a topic area that interests them. This course has something for all types of learner that may be weighing up arguments and essay writing, practical investigations, performance in drama, dance, sport or music or making artefacts in subjects such as design technology, art, ICT or engineering.

By choosing the Extended Project as an option, students develop many skills that will be transferable to the place of work. If university is a consideration, the course provides important experience of planning and carrying out research.

The course consists of four different options, allowing students to pursue an interest in something that they already know they are good at and can develop further in their post-16 studies: option 1: dissertation, option 2: investigation/field study, option 3: performance or option 4: artefact.

This course is 100% coursework with no written examination. Learners are graded their submitted project and the presentation they deliver to the course tutor.

Good organisation and the ability to work independently are essential skills needed for success in this course. Students are assessed against four grading criteria consisting of; the ability to plan, manage, complete and review their project.

PLEASE NOTE: Students who are studying on one of our Career Pathways may be guided as to the subject area to research.  Please see the individual Career Pathways for more details.