Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
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The AQA Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a key component of our Langton Extended Curriculum, offering students the freedom to explore a topic of personal interest in depth. Highly respected by universities and employers, the EPQ develops a wide range of transferable skills that prepare students for higher education and beyond.
Skills Developed
- Independent research – locating and evaluating sources, constructing a well-supported argument.
- Critical thinking – analysing complex issues and synthesising ideas.
- Project management – planning, organising, and meeting deadlines.
- Communication – presenting findings confidently in written and oral formats, including the formal viva.
- Data analysis – applying quantitative and qualitative methods.
- Resilience and self-motivation – adapting strategies and overcoming challenges.
Benefits for University Applications
Universities value the EPQ because it demonstrates:
- Academic independence – the ability to manage a substantial project without constant supervision.
- Research capability – essential for degree-level study.
- Commitment and curiosity – qualities that make applicants stand out. Many universities offer reduced offers or additional consideration for students who complete an EPQ, as it evidences readiness for the demands of higher education.
Examples of EPQ topics
- The impact of social media on political engagement among young people.
- Can sustainable fashion become mainstream?
- The ethics of artificial intelligence in healthcare.
- How effective are rewilding projects in reversing biodiversity loss in the UK?
- An investigation into the psychological effects of music therapy on dementia patients.
- To what extent did propaganda influence public opinion during World War I?
- The role of epigenetics in cancer treatment: promise or hype?
These projects showcase intellectual curiosity and creativity, while giving students confidence in presenting their ideas—skills that are invaluable for university and future careers.
