The Year 13 EPQ Presentation Afternoons marked the final significant stage in our students’ Extended Project Qualification journey, offering a wonderful opportunity for them to showcase the projects they have been developing with such dedication.

The EPQ is an independent academic research project that allows students to gain valuable skills in research, referencing, critical thinking and extended writing. It provides an excellent stepping stone towards university study, and every student involved has invested an impressive amount of time and energy into their individual work.

Each year, students starting Year 12 have the option to embark on an EPQ alongside their A Level subjects. This qualification encourages them to explore an area of personal interest in depth. The course involves around 120 hours of work, including 30 hours of taught skills within the Roedean timetable and approximately 90 hours spent completing the final project, which is assessed internally. Worth up to 28 UCAS points, the EPQ is an excellent way for students to strengthen their university applications. Universities particularly value the fact that students have pursued academic interests that go far beyond the classroom curriculum.

The EPQ supports the development of independent study habits and research skills that are essential for success in higher education. It also enhances personal skills such as critical thinking and problem solving. Many students discover potential career paths through their projects, and the experience often contributes to a stronger personal statement. Some universities may even make reduced entry offers to applicants who have completed an EPQ to a high standard.

As always, this year’s cohort produced an exciting range of project titles. A few examples include:

• Under English Common Law, the medical profession is held to a different standard of care than the rest of society. Can this be justified?
• Does imposter phenomenon affect creative expression in female art students?
• Does personalised medicine improve health outcomes, and is it viable for the NHS?
• Could investment in the Northern Triangle’s coffee industry help to address the United States Southern Border migration crisis?
• The presentation afternoons were a celebration of curiosity, hard work and academic ambition, and we are immensely proud of all the students who took part.

Discover the full range of enrichment opportunities for our Sixth Form students on our Sixth Form Enrichment page