Discover, Research, Achieve: How Worthing College Students Are Benefiting From EPQs

Black Holes in Space, Ancient Rome and Premier League Footballers are among the fascinating subjects being explored by students at Worthing College as they embark on their Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) journey.

What Is An EPQ?

The EPQ gives students the opportunity to delve deeply into a topic they are genuinely passionate about, allowing them to research, analyse and investigate a subject of their choice alongside their main curriculum studies.

Whether exploring the mysteries of astrophysics, uncovering the secrets of one of history’s greatest civilisations, or examining the science and psychology behind elite sporting performance, students are encouraged to follow their curiosity and become specialists in an area that interests them.

The qualification has become an increasingly valuable part of a student’s academic profile, helping them develop skills that are highly sought after by universities, higher apprenticeship providers and employers.

Outstanding Results

Worthing College’s EPQ students achieved outstanding results last year, performing above national benchmarks with a 100% achievement rate. Nearly a quarter of students achieved the highest grade, with an A* rate of 23.1%, while 84.6% secured grades between A* and B.

Over the coming months, this year’s cohort will undertake an independent project, learning how to manage a long-term piece of work from start to finish. Along the way, they will strengthen their abilities in research, organisation, project management, critical thinking, academic writing and presentation skills.

The Benefits of an EPQ

While the EPQ is worth up to 28 UCAS points, its benefits extend far beyond university applications. Students gain confidence in developing their own ideas and viewpoints and working independently, helping them prepare for future study, training and employment.

For many students, the project can also be the starting point for a future career, providing an opportunity to explore a potential profession or area of interest in greater depth before taking the next step after college.

As this year’s students begin their EPQ adventure, they are not only working towards an additional qualification, but also developing the skills, knowledge and confidence that will support them long after they leave college.

Find Out More

Visitors can meet some of Worthing College’s current EPQ students and discover more about the qualification at our Open Evenings on 15 and 20 October from 4.30-7pm.

If you would like more information about EPQs, please contact Nicky Rogerson at n.rogerson@worthing.ac.uk.

For more information about a wide range of courses available at Worthing College, please click here.