Upper Sixth boys are celebrating a remarkable set of results in this year’s Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), achieving an exceptional 92% A and A* grades. This cohort has demonstrated a level of academic maturity and independence that places them among the strongest EPQ performers in recent years.
What is an EPQ?
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a Level 3 qualification completed alongside A-Levels. Worth half an A-Level, it requires boys to plan, research and produce a substantial piece of independent work, usually a 5,000‑word dissertation or scientific investigation. Recognised and valued by universities, the EPQ develops advanced skills in research, critical thinking, project management and academic writing.
Inspiring critical real-world thinking
This year’s projects tackled some of the most relevant and challenging questions facing the modern world. Pupils explored topics such as ‘The impact of social media on jury impartiality in the UK and US’, ‘The emerging notion of digital immortality through the lens of modernism’, and ‘The ethical considerations surrounding the trading of defence stocks’. These questions reflected not only academic curiosity, but also a keen awareness of global issues.
Mrs Anna Smith, Head of Sixth Form, expressed immense pride in the boys’ achievements, noting that their success stemmed from “academic rigor and creativity, showcasing advanced research abilities, critical thinking and the capacity to synthesise complex ideas from diverse sources.” She added that the independence with which they managed their projects, and the clarity with which they communicated their findings, “highlight a maturity that provides a strong foundation for success beyond Sixth Form”.
The boys’ perspective
For the boys themselves, the EPQ was both a challenge and a milestone.
Sam B, who investigated ‘The financial distribution in Formula One’, spoke about the practical skills he gained along the way. He found that keeping a comprehensive research log transformed his workflow. “It really helped me to compile all the sources I found, which helped when writing the essay. I really built on my referencing skills, which will be really useful for university.”
Sam D, whose project examined ‘How will AI‑based techniques predict earthquakes along the San Andreas Fault?’, described the experience as a major personal achievement. “Ninety hours of research followed by a long dissertation will help me a great deal when at university,” he explained. “I also discovered during the research that there is a limitation to what can be predicted by AI and I didn’t think this would be the case.”
The EPQ continues to be one of the most rewarding academic opportunities available in the Sixth Form. This year’s outstanding outcomes are a testament to the boys’ dedication and curiosity and a strong indicator of the bright futures they are already beginning to shape.
Some of this year’s project titles:
- How have the physical geographical features of Spain affected its borders?
- How has social media Impacted Jury Impartiality in the UK and US?
- An insight into financial distribution in Formula One
- What is the value of digital immortality under the scope of modernism?
- Will further research on orbital chemistry still impact our understanding on inorganic chemistry?
- How will AI based techniques be able to predict Earthquakes in California (San Andreas Fault)?
- What are the Origins, Purposes, and Implications of the Greenbelt Law in the UK
- In the modern world, is the trading of defence stocks ethically correct?
- Missed Opportunities: Why are there no female managers in top flight English men’s football? – Discussing the managerial gender gap and barriers to changing stereotypes.
- To What Extent Has Foreign Imposed Regime Change Worked From the Years 1945-2014?
- What was the most significant cause for the 2023 war in Gaza?
- What were the most important factors in ensuring the success of amphibious operations in the Second World War?
