20th July 2015
A group of upcoming Second Year’s, who will be embarking upon the EPQ programme this September, began preparing for the challenging work load ahead recently, as they took a trip to Bristol University to develop their research skills.
The EPQ group
The Extended Project Qualification is the equivalent to an AS level and is chosen by students who would benefit from an extra challenge. It is an independent project which mirrors that of a University Dissertation. Students are able to pick a topic which truly interests them and are required to produce an artefact with a 1,500 word report or a 5,000 word essay. Past topics have included; ‘Nature versus Nurture: Are athletes born or made?’ and ‘Survival: How has Dr Who survived 50 years?’.
At the end of term, the group visited Bristol University where they got to access the Library and get to grips with the type of research skills that are essential for the EPQ and are constantly utilised at University level. The students learnt how to use the search catalogue and were taught how to get the best out of using Bristol University Libraries and search engines in general.
The EPQ is highly regarded by UK Universities, including the Russell Group, and can be the deciding factor when offering places on sought-after courses. With a 100% pass rate at St Brendan’s for the last two years, we look forward to another year of highly interesting projects and great achievements!
