The UAL Extended Project Qualification - What and Why?

During this time of change, reforms, and the uncertainty of the future qualification structure, it is good to know that the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) remains out of scope of these changes.

The EPQ is an excellent opportunity to explore ideas surrounding a subject that intrigues, inspires and engages students. The research and writing skills developed whilst doing an EPQ can be extremely beneficial in helping with progression into Higher Education. It is internally assessed and externally moderated, with no external assessments or exams which tend to dominate delivery and cause stress, anxiety, and uncertainty for students. It allows the student to take control of their own learning and builds confidence in a subject of interest.

The EPQ is a standalone qualification designed to extend and develop students’ skills in independent research and project management. The EPQ can be taken alongside other qualifications, including A levels, and is assessed at the same level as an A level. It is equivalent to half a full A level and is recognised by universities and employers, with some leading universities making alternative offers to students undertaking an EPQ.

It provides an opportunity for students to extend their abilities beyond the A level syllabus and/or chosen subject, stand out from their peers and prepare for university or their future career path. It is an excellent way for students to demonstrate their interest and ability in a particular field of study.

The EPQ requires students to carry out research on a topic that they have chosen and is not covered by their other qualifications. They then use this research to produce a written report and, in the case of practical projects, an artefact or a production. A student can take inspiration from something studied in class or something completely unrelated to their studies.

By taking responsibility for the choice and design of an individual project students will:

• become more critical, reflective, and independent learners
• develop and apply decision-making and problem-solving skills
• increase their planning, research, analysis, synthesis, evaluation, and presentation skills
• learn to apply new technologies confidently
• demonstrate creativity, initiative, and enterprise.

The EPQ works well alongside other qualifications to extend development. For example, if a student is studying film as their main qualification, the EPQ could be focused on script writing (creative writing generally allows students to engage with most creative arts and supports STEM subjects). It is also being used more for adult learners and community projects, making it accessible and able to meet the needs of many people. The flexibility means it can be adapted to accommodate the individual needs of the learner. With the support of the tutor and flexible delivery*, there is the ability to react and engage many people into progressing, finding greater self-confidence, up-skilling and so much more.

Although the funding for this qualification is currently limited to 14-16 and 16-18, some local authorities see the value in life-long-learning and have chosen the EPQ as the route to help and encourage adult learners with various schemes. It would be beneficial to ask your local authority about these opportunities or schemes; if they do not currently offer financial support for 19+ learners, maybe ask why?

If you are interested in learning more about delivering the UAL Level 3 Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), please contact approvals.awarding@arts.ac.uk.

*Blended delivery models with remote learning and support are applied for upon approval for delivery and reviewed on an individual basis