EPQ Success 2026
Our students continue to achieve exceptional outcomes in the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), producing work of an impressively high academic standard while developing the skills that universities and employers value highly.
An impressive 39 students, over half of our Year 13s, completed an EPQ last November, having worked assiduously on their research and projects throughout Year 12.
Students were awarded their grades by the examination board last week and we were very proud of the standards they reached with 90% of grades at A* to B.
The EPQ allows students to explore an area they are genuinely passionate about, resulting in ambitious, original projects that consistently earn excellent grades and strong recognition.
Topics from our current students ranged from “How did women contribute to the success of the American Civil Rights Movement” to “Is Artificial Intelligence a threat to the Medical profession?” and “To what extent could a post growth economy offer a sustainable alternative to capitalism in mitigating climate change” to “How effective is the United Nations in the enforcement of international law in times of conflict?”
Projects can take the form of:
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A 5,000-word academic dissertation
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An artefact (such as a product, performance, model, or creative work) accompanied by a shorter written report, or a
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Research-based investigation, evaluation, or extended analysis.
Regardless of format, all EPQs must demonstrate:
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Independent research
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Critical thinking and evaluation
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Clear planning and time management
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Academic writing and presentation skills.
Students also complete a formal presentation on their project, developing confidence in public speaking and reflection.
Although the EPQ is an independent qualification, students are carefully guided throughout the process by our experienced teachers by:
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Helping refine project ideas and research questions
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Teaching research skills, academic referencing, and project planning
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Providing regular supervision meetings and structured feedback
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Supporting students in reflecting their progress and problem-solving challenges.
This balance of independence and expert guidance enables students to produce work that is both ambitious and academically rigorous and typically takes around 120 hours to complete.
The EPQ is a great example of our commitment to nurturing independent thinkers, confident learners, and ambitious young adults - and we are immensely proud of the outstanding work our students have produced.
Mrs Rumboldt, Head of Academic Enrichment, Head of Religious Studies and EPQ Coordinator, told us,
“We are incredibly proud of our students’ EPQ achievements. Their success reflects not only hard work, resilience and a passion for learning, but also the valuable skills they have gained from independent research to critical analysis, which will benefit them throughout their future studies and careers.”
Our EPQ students told us,
“I am so appreciative of having had the opportunity to learn more about a topic that I am fascinated by (the role of women in the Civil Rights Movement) whilst completing an EPQ. It was such an informative and rewarding experience!” - Lydia
“My EPQ, which centered around the enforcement of international law, not only reaffirmed my career aspirations but gave me insight into a widely contested topic in the current political climate. I found the experience greatly rewarding and I will never forget what I have learnt from it.” - Grace
“Researching the impact of NHS challenges on doctors’ livelihoods for my EPQ strengthened my interest in medicine and helped me better understand the realities behind healthcare systems. It was incredibly rewarding to research a topic I’m passionate about and develop my critical thinking and independent research skills.” - Khadijat
“My EPQ showed me how rewarding independent research can be and help me build skills such as discipline needed for long-term academics.” - Usayd
Head of Sixth Form, Mrs Guest said,
“These exceptional EPQ results are a true testament of our students’ intellectual curiosity and their desire to stretch themselves beyond the A Level curriculum. This year, we have been particularly impressed by the sophistication of the research undertaken and students have explored complex societal and scientific questions, ranging from the effectiveness of the UK prison system to the evolution of feminist theory and the psychology behind serial killers. Well done to our Year 13 students who participated in the EPQ!”