Extended Project Qualification

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is an exciting and optional opportunity available to Lower Sixth pupils at Merchant Taylors’. It allows pupils to explore a topic of their own choosing in depth, offering a valuable taste of university-style study and independent research. With complete freedom to select their subject, pupils are encouraged to pursue areas of genuine interest, whether academic, cross-curricular, or entirely outside the A Level syllabus.

The EPQ is designed to foster intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and self-discipline. Pupils work independently to research and produce a final report, typically in the form of an extended essay, which is complemented by a presentation to peers. This process is supported by a series of taught skills sessions covering essential areas such as planning, objective setting, critical analysis, primary research, report writing, and presentation techniques. Each pupil is also assigned a supervisor who acts as a mentor, guiding them through the project and offering feedback along the way.

The aim of the EPQ is to develop autonomous learners who are well-prepared for the demands of higher education. It encourages pupils to reflect on their learning process, manage deadlines, and engage with complex ideas beyond the classroom. The final project is assessed internally before being submitted to AQA for moderation, and successful completion earns pupils up to 28 UCAS points, more than half an A Level. Increasingly, universities are recognising the EPQ in their offers, valuing the transferable skills and academic maturity it demonstrates.

For many pupils, the EPQ becomes one of the most rewarding aspects of their Sixth Form experience, offering both academic challenge and personal fulfilment.